FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pest control, along with better pharmaceuticals and vaccines, and proper sanitation, is attributed to the enhanced quality of life experienced in the United States today versus other countries around the world. This April, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) acknowledges the pest control industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from common pest threats during National Pest Management Month, an annual observance that has been celebrated for more than 40 years and is also recognized by Chase’s Calendar of Events.
Pest control is an important aspect in today’s society, as household pests, such as termites, rodents and other pests can cause costly damage to homes, while others, such as cockroaches, rodents and flies threaten the nation’s food supply, and mosquitoes and ticks pose significant health threats to humans through disease transmission.
“Every day, pest professionals work to protect people and properties from the potential diseases and damage caused by pests,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs at NPMA. “This industry commitment was brought to light in 2016 when the United States was introduced to a new disease – Zika virus. This, in addition to the countless other pest-related illnesses, such as Lyme disease, West Nile virus, Dengue fever, Hantavirus and more illustrates that pests are not just an unsightly nuisance, and proper pest control is necessary to reduce and protect against pest threats.”
Simple home improvements such as sealing cracks around a structure’s foundation, eliminating sources of moisture and patching ripped screens can help prevent infestations. To help ward off pest problems, Mannes also suggests homeowners look to eliminate sources of food, water and shelter by wiping down counters, disposing of garbage in sealed receptacles and removing areas of stagnant water outdoors.
For more information, visit PestWorld.org to find a qualified pest control professional and for help identifying pests using the Pest Guide.
About the National Pest Management Association
The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 7,000 members was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of common household pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org.
