Many pests are harmful to human health. While mosquitoes are well-known for carrying malaria, ants are known for their painful bites. Termites: what about them? Do termites pose a threat to people?
They are typically destructive pests that destroy homes by chewing on wood. Few people have concerns about the health risks these pests can cause.
Unlike mosquitoes and bed bugs, they do not require human blood to survive. That’s why people rarely complain about their bites.
But that doesn’t mean these pests are not known to cause any harm to humans. So, are termites harmful to animals when they bite?
Let’s explore this question in detail.
3 Hidden Health Risks
Termites, primarily aiming to consume wooden structures in homes, can also cause health issues. Here are a few health problems:
Respiratory Irritation and Asthma
Research indicates a link between termites and asthma. Termite droppings and wood dust mark a house with termite nests.
This dust usually gets into the air, especially when the air conditioner blows it.
Moreover, they may worsen the situation or contribute to mould growth in the home. They can upset the mould and disperse it throughout the atmosphere.
An asthmatic may have burning eyes, runny nose, and irritation in their throat when they breathe in air. Severe infestations have the potential to cause respiratory system irritation and asthma attacks.
Fungal Infections
Termites may not directly cause fungal infections, but they can serve as carriers of fungi. They coexist harmoniously with some fungi, which they raise in their nests to produce food.
Termites devour the fungi, which feed on the waste left behind by the termites. During this process, the bugs gather fungal spores on their bodies and disperse them while moving.
For example, Aspergillus fumigatus is a fungus that grows in termite colonies and can infect humans’ respiratory systems when they breathe in its spores.
Luckily, most people are immune to these kinds of diseases. Plus, it’s less dangerous because a single termite can only carry a minimal amount of fungal. However, those who have weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to illnesses.
Skin Allergy
Termites typically don’t attack people to obtain food. They rarely interact with humans and spend most of their time hiding.
However, the more giant soldier termites can bite when they sense danger.
Although most people find their bites harmless, despite the potential for stinging, allergic reactions, including itching, swelling, redness, and a burning feeling, can occur in people with sensitive skin.
Furthermore, Recent pesticide treatments have led to the spread of the chemical by some surviving termites.
When a chemical comes into contact with open skin, you could acquire contact dermatitis or pesticide poisoning.
Finally, you should hire a termite removal service to eliminate the termite and prevent further issues.
Do-It-Yourself Termite Treatment
Attempting to treat a termite infestation alone can lead to various issues. Termite pesticides, when used correctly, are not harmful to animals.
However, Amateur activities can often be harmful to humans.
Pest control professionals use specialized termite treatments to eradicate colonies and prevent the recurrence of the bugs.
Schedule professional termite inspections to avoid an infestation or ensure you don’t already have one.
