On the Gold Coast All Care Pest Control are frequently called upon to treat “bities”. In many cases these are due to insect pests such as fleas, bed bugs and midges. But frequently other irritants can cause the appearance of insect bites.
For example, fibreglass roof insulation that has been subject to high levels of heat in roof spaces for many years can become brittle and enter the house through exhaust fans and downlights etc. For many people this can cause an allergic skin reaction and leave the sufferer thinking that they have been attacked by an insect pest.
People working amongst old papers and cardboard may also have an allergic reaction from what are known as paper shards. Minute particles of this material can enter the air when contacts the skin will cause the appearance of bites. All Care Pest Control have come across this situation amongst workers in liquor stores etc. who are constantly tearing open cardboard cartons and then being exposed to paper shards.
Archive records in offices may also attract paper mites and when the papers are handled by staff, then people suffer from a reaction. There is some doubt as to whether these mites actually bite the victim, but it may simply be that some people are predisposed to a reaction when they come into contact with them.
Nevertheless, the insect pests are there as well. Where pets are allowed to enter homes fleas are frequently the cause of the bites. Generally flea bites occur on the lower legs or ankles but if fleas are infesting furniture then other parts of the body can be affected as well.
It is also possible that neighbourhood cats can come onto people’s property and flea infestations can occur in backyards. This is particularly common during the spring and summer months which produce ideal breeding conditions for fleas.