Serious health risk for Cleveland due to rising number of cockroaches and ticks

Cleveland could see a significant surge of disease-carrying cockroaches and ticks this spring, posing a serious health risk for the city. This is the grim warning of the National Pest Management Association’s Public Health Pest Index, a bi-annual pest forecast. The index indicates the US cities most at risk for seeing an increase of mosquitoes, ticks, cockroaches, and rats during the next few months. Apart for Cleveland, other cities mentioned in the last pest index list are Boston, Denver, Seattle, and New Orleans. Dr. Jorge Parada, the medical advisor for the National Pest Management Association, reminded that ticks, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and rodents spread dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, West Nile virus, Salmonella, and hantavirus. If the population of ticks and cockroaches grows in Ohio this spring, it could lead to more asthma attacks and Lyme disease cases. According to the American Lung Association, cockroaches can cause several allergic reactions because the allergens contained in their body parts and excrements can become airborne and contaminate indoor air. They can also collect in pillows, bedding, and other types of fabric. Cockroach allergens in dust and fabrics can be found even in places that don’t have the pests. Ticks are also a serious concern because they spread Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. According to the Ohio Department of Health, they are an increasing issue in the state. Homeowners are advised to eliminate stagnant water, seal openings, keep food in airtight containers, and dispose of garbage regularly to reduce the risk of attracting pests.