1. Mosquitoes
Mosquito bites are not only annoying, they can also cause serious illness. In fact, mosquitoes have been linked to many different types of illnesses including West Nile virus, Dengue fever, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, Malaria, and others. These viruses can be transmitted via mosquito bites, therefore making them a major threat to public health.
2. Ticks
Ticks are small arachnids that live on the skin of mammals and birds. They can carry various bacteria and parasites that can lead to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tularemia, and Babesiosis. Ticks can also transmit several viral infections such as Powassan encephalitis, Colorado tick fever, and Heartland virus.
3. Fleas
Fleas are tiny insects that live on animals and humans. They can spread tapeworms, plague, typhus, and bubonic plague. Flea bites can also cause dermatitis and allergies.
4. Bedbugs
Bedbugs are blood-feeding insects that live off of human hosts. They are often associated with poverty and overcrowding. Bedbug infestations can occur indoors or out.
5. Lice
Lice are parasitic insects that live on the hair of people and pets. They can carry diseases such as scabies, head lice, and body lice.
6. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are winged insects that live in dark places. They can survive in sewers, basements, and attics. Cockroach droppings can contaminate food and drink.
7. Rats
Rats are rodents that eat garbage, steal food, and carry diseases. They can carry diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, and rat bite fever.