Continuing from Monday…
Mice are a problem in homes with stored boxes as well. Mice have no trouble using their sharp teeth to rip open boxes to use as nesting sites. Signs of shredded paper, fabric, twigs, or leaves are an indication that mice have made a home inside your storage boxes. Keep a watchful eye out for mice feces as well. Discovery of mouse feces should be handled with extreme care because of the danger it poses to humans. Certain types of mouse species transmit diseases and viruses through their urine, feces and saliva. Hantavirus is transmitted to humans through airborne particles that are breathed in. This dangerous virus mimics flu-like symptoms and requires immediate medical attention. Without proper treatment, Hantavirus can be fatal. Extra care should be taken when cleaning up mouse droppings. For storage boxes, it is best to empty the contents outdoors to minimize inhalation. Each item should be cleaned with a disinfectant while wearing a tightly fitted mask and protective gloves for the best protection from disease.
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is another common pest that you will find lurking in your attics and holiday storage boxes. Spending the spring and summertime outdoors, stink bugs have migrated inside to garages, sheds and attics searching for a warm place to spend the winter months. You will often find these pests huddled in cardboard boxes among your treasured decorations. These pests do not bite, nor are they dangerous. Disturbing a stink bug will alert you to their presence. Their stench is likened to that of rotting feet and tends to stick around for about 20 minutes once they spray.
NJ pest control professionals recommend that you store all holiday decorations in plastic tubs with tight fitting lids to avoid all invading pests.
Allison Pest Control offers a free home pest inspection to people who live in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex Counties. Our pest control technician will be able to examine both the inside and outside of your home and provide information about how rodents or insects would be able to enter your structure. Let Allison Pest Control help you live a pest free life!