The current hot dry drought induced weather conditions are unfortunately ideal for hayfever and other allergies in Australia.  But according to Gary Stephenson – Technical Director at PEST ELITE, there are potentially worse warm weather allergy triggers than grass or pollen – and they’re hiding inside our own homes.

Research shows that cockroaches, one of the most common household pests, carry allergens that can cause skin rashes, chronic stuffy nose, itchy eyes, wheezing, and even acute asthma attacks. 

Cockroach allergens spread to humans via faeces, urine and decomposing bodies which become part of the household dust. 

“Common advice for people suffering from hayfever allergy is to stay indoors and close your windows so pollen can’t come inside. But this can actually make pest-related allergies worse if you have cockroaches inside” says Gary Stephenson at Pest Elite.

“If you suspect you or your child may be suffering from cockroach allergy, it is important to see your doctor. They can test for cockroach allergy, as well as other common allergens. If cockroach allergy is diagnosed, it is vital to keep your home free from roaches,” says Gary.

And just like Spring and Summer mark the start of hay fever season with the weather quickly warming up, it also means increased cockroach infestations.

Pest Elite strongly advises hiring a qualified pest control company to inspect your home, identify areas where cockroaches are present, and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

“DIY pest control products do not provide a complete and effective treatment. DIY products may kill some of the cockroaches you see but for every visible cockroach, there are many more hiding in the cracks, crevices and cavities of your home, in your kitchen, down drains, in your roof and underneath your floor. Professional pest managers know cockroach lifecycles and habits, including harbourage and breeding sites.  They also know exactly how and where to treat, resulting in complete eradication of pests in your home with ongoing protection,” says Gary Stephenson.

Your cockroach treatment will depend on the level of infestation and the specie(s) of cockroach. Although there are around 4,500 species of cockroaches worldwide, there are only a small number that are commonly found in Australian homes.
Pest Elite uses a combination of new generation products and technologies, including bait gels, traps and eco-friendly pesticide formulations in order to eliminate cockroach infestations. 

PEST ELITE also provides the following tips to prevent cockroaches from invading your home:

• Do not leave dirty dishes in your sink overnight 
• Keep all food in the refrigerator or in containers
• Regularly remove garbage from your home, especially your kitchen
• Keep pet food in well sealed containers
• Keep outdoor entertaining areas and barbeques free of food scraps and residues
• Install tight fitting fly screens and draft excluders on door bottoms to seal up gaps
• Clean out gutters regularly and repair leaking taps 
• Keep lawns cut short and gardens maintained (sweep up leaf litter and keep weeds down) 
• Book a yearly pest inspection with a reputable pest controller