Parasites, defined as an organism that lives in or on an organism of another species (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the other’s expense, can be found in the home, hotel or anywhere that provides an opportunity for them to survive.
Bed Bugs – The presence of bedbugs throughout the world has taken the human population like a Tsunami. Pest management specialists have had to play catch up on how to successfully combat these persistent blood sucking insects. We have now learned that bed bug management cannot be accomplished using pesticides alone. A systematic approach is needed. Until recently, professionals were recommending throwing away affected box springs and mattresses. Fortunately, today we have discovered that dry steam when applied to the mattresses, couches and carpets will virtually eliminate all stages of the bedbugs including the hard to kill eggs. Vacuuming helps, but it will not remove all of the bedbug eggs that are stuck to the mattress and other surface. Even vigorous vacuuming will not remove all of the eggs.
Ticks – These small arachnids are living on the blood of mammals and birds. They are vectors of a number of grave diseases. They are often brought into the home by pets. There are often alarming stories of ticks infesting trains and other public transport. Vapor cleaning is the best weapon against these infestations. Vapor also penetrates into cracks and crevasses where ticks can hide.
Mites and Acari – Mites cause several forms of allergic diseases, including hay fever, asthma and eczema and are known to aggravate atopic dermatitis. Mites are usually found in warm and humid locations, including beds. It is thought that inhalation of mites during sleep exposes the human body to some antigens that induce hypersensitivity reaction.
Dust mite allergens are thought to be among the heaviest dust allergens. Treatment of mite allergy starts with avoidance. Regular steam sanitizing of mattresses and blankets can help in this regard.
Fleas – This small wingless jumping insect feeds on the blood of mammals and birds. It sometimes transmits diseases through its bite. Combatting a flea infestation in the home takes patience because for every flea found on an animal, there could be many more developing in the home.
The environment should be treated with a spray insecticide. Frequent vacuuming is very helpful, but the vacuum bag must be disposed of immediately afterwards. The combination of dry steam and vacuuming should eliminate fleas definitely from the environment.
