You and your family may not be the only ones living in your house. The unsettling reality is that many small invaders can make their way inside. These creatures are often just nuisances, but some can pose real dangers. Here’s a list of common household pests and their associated dangers.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are among the most infamous of invaders. These creepy crawlers will suck your blood while you sleep and leave irritating bites on your skin.

While bed bugs do not transmit any known diseases, they can cause unhealthy amounts of anxiety in their victims. Bed bug infestations are quite difficult to remove completely, so it’s best to get the help of pest control services Terre Haute IN for this particular critter.

Mosquitoes

These flying blood-suckers are annoyingly common — and stealthy. Mosquitoes can quietly float through an open window or follow you through the front door. The familiar, itchy welt on your skin is often the only sign that you’ve fallen prey to these sneaky insects. Mosquitoes are also notorious for carrying and transmitting many diseases and pathogens, such as the West Nile virus and the Zika virus.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are big, ugly and disgusting. They can be found in places that are dark and damp, such as your basement or bathroom. Worse than their disturbing looks, cockroaches can harbor infectious bacteria and even trigger asthma in some people.

Mice and Rats

Although slightly more palatable in appearance than cockroaches, mice and rats are possibly more dangerous to humans. These unwelcome guests can carry numerous diseases, including salmonella, deadly hantavirus, and even the plague.

With their famously large front teeth, these rodents can chew through many materials, including electrical wiring. Their chewing can cause structural damage and even electrical fires. They might even bite you if they’re cornered.

Pests can pose a serious threat to you, your loved ones and the very house you all live in. To protect your home and everyone in it, be sure to take the proper precautions to prevent infestations, seeking professional help when needed.