Pharaoh ants are typically found in buildings and often go unnoticed until they invade kitchens or pantries. While not considered dangerous, their ability to spread bacteria can pose health risks.
Is it time to rethink the safety of these tiny invaders? Keep reading to discover their potential threats and how to manage their presence effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Pharaoh ants pose health risks by carrying bacteria, which can contaminate food and surfaces in homes and healthcare settings.
- Allergy concerns are real with Pharaoh ants, as their bites can aggravate allergies and leave behind allergens that trigger respiratory issues.
- Invasive and hard to control, Pharaoh ants form large colonies that can quickly infest various environments.
- Recognizing signs of infestation and hiring pest control companies can help keep Pharaoh ants out of your home.
ARE PHARAOH ANTS HARMFUL TO HUMANS?
Pharaoh ants threaten human health and property, concerning homeowners and businesses alike.
Carry and Spread Diseases
Pharaoh ants are known carriers of various pathogens, making their presence in homes and healthcare facilities a potential health risk. They can transmit harmful bacteria such as salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus, leading to serious human infections.
Exacerbate Allergies
Pharaoh ant bites can aggravate allergies, especially for sensitive individuals. When their saliva, feces, or body parts remain in living spaces, they produce allergens that can trigger respiratory issues.
The presence of these allergens can be quite irritating. Regular exposure may worsen existing allergies or cause new ones to develop.
Form Invasive Colonies
Pharaoh ant colonies are expansive, often containing thousands of worker ants. Their ability to create new colonies makes them a challenging pest to control.
These indoor pests thrive in homes, schools, and grocery stores. Once established, they can spread quickly. They may outcompete other ant species, like carpenter ants, for food and nesting sites.
Compromise Sterile Environments
Pharaoh ants are notorious for infiltrating sterile environments, such as hospitals and laboratories. Their presence in these settings significantly risks public health and safety.
These species of ants can disrupt the cleanliness essential in such areas. They may contaminate medical equipment or medications.
Damage Electrical Equipment
Pharaoh ants sometimes damage electrical wiring and components. As they search for nesting sites, they can chew on insulation. This behavior not only poses a fire hazard but also results in costly repairs for infested properties.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM PHARAOH ANTS
Keeping ants out of the home requires vigilance and consistent effort. Because they tend to come in large numbers, taking proactive measures can help avoid serious issues.
Identify Signs of Ant Infestations
Recognizing the early signs of a Pharaoh ant infestation can avoid pest problems. These light brown ants with bent antennae often live behind baseboards. They can also make homes in humid areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Some common signs include:
- Ant Nests: Check for Pharaoh ant nests under appliances and wall voids.
- Ant Trails: Look for small groups of ants moving back and forth.
- Food Sources: Be aware of missing or damaged items in pantries.
Prevent Future Pharaoh Ant Problems
Preventive measures are vital in keeping Pharaoh ants at bay. An ounce of DIY prevention can save a lot of trouble. To get rid of Pharaoh ants, here are prevention tips while waiting for a pest control company:
- Seal off access points where Pharaoh ants live.
- Regularly clean protein crumbs or sweet spills.
- Dispose of garbage in trash cans with tight lids.
- Use airtight containers for pet food and groceries.
- Place baits strategically in areas where they forage.
- Install door sweeps and seal cracks around windows and doors.
Hire Professional Pest Control Services
Getting professional help not only ensures effective treatment but also keeps the situation under control. To ensure a pest-free environment, choose exterminators who specialize in Pharaoh ant control.
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL
Pharaoh ants can be tricky to deal with. If the ant population seems to multiply quickly, it’s time to get help from pest control experts.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s ant control specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.