Common Insects in the Philippines: Which Ones are a Threat to Your Family’s Health?

The tropical climate of our country creates an ideal environment for a variety of insects to thrive. While some of these tiny creatures are essential to maintaining the ecosystem and enriching biodiversity, others pose significant health risks to humans. Knowing which common insects in the Philippines are potential hazards can help families take preventive measures to protect their homes from infestations.

In this article, we’ll discuss the harmful effects of specific household pests and stress the importance of professional pest control services to everyone’s health and safety.

Household Pests and Their Health Risks

When we think of insects, the outdoors could be the first thing that comes to mind. Nature is home to several species of insects, and that’s why it’s normal to assume we’re more likely to get bitten or stung while spending time outdoors. But these creatures are closer to us than we expect. Where, you ask? Search no further than your own home.

Residential areas or places with high human activity can also be breeding grounds for insects. Here’s a list of insects in the Philippines that can invade Filipino homes and the health risks they carry:

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are among the most notorious pests primarily due to their role in spreading serious diseases. Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water typically found in unattended household items, such as flower pots, containers, and clogged gutters. It’s important to mention that only female mosquitoes bite to get blood, which they need to produce eggs. The country is home to various species, including Aedes aegypti and Anopheles spp., which can transmit diseases such as:

• Dengue Fever: Dengue is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms include sudden high fever, rashes, and acute muscle pain. What makes dengue even more dangerous is it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications and affect thousands annually.
• Malaria: Caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites, malaria can result in high fever, chills, and flu-like illness.
• Zika Virus: Zika virus infection is a disease caused by a virus of the same name. It is spread to people through the bite of an infected female of the Aedes genus. This disease can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes).
• Chikungunya: Chikungunya is a viral disease with symptoms like fever, joint pain, and fatigue. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito.   Symptoms typically appear 3-7 days post-bite and can last for weeks or months.

Termites

Termites are often called “silent destroyers” due to their ability to cause significant structural damage before being detected. Both subterranean and drywood termites are prevalent in the country. Subterranean termites nest underground and damage wooden structures from below, while dry wood termites infest furniture and structural beams. In severe cases, compromised structures due to termite infestations pose safety hazards. Here are some common examples of the structural damage termites can inflict:

• Foundation Damage: Sagging floors, cracked walls, and misaligned doors or windows.
• Damage to Support Beams and Joists: This type of damage can be particularly dangerous as it may lead to partial or complete collapse of the house.
• Ceiling, Wall, and Floor Damage: Termites can weaken ceilings, walls, and floors, which may require costly repairs or replacements.
• Cosmetic Damage: Termites can also affect wooden furniture or decorative woodwork.

While termites in the Philippines aren’t direct carriers of disease, termite droppings and the dust from termite-damaged wood can cause various health problems, including the following:. 

• Skin Allergies: Termites can bite when they feel threatened. Those with sensitive skin can develop allergic reactions, such as itchiness, redness, swelling, and a burning sensation.
• Respiratory Issues: Dust and debris produced by termites can become airborne and trigger respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis.
• Fungal Infections: Termites can be carriers of fungi and pose health risks.

Since termites often go unnoticed, it’s important to schedule regular inspections and termite control services to prevent costly harm to your home and health.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are resilient pests that thrive in warm, humid environments typical of Filipino homes. They are one of the most visible and troublesome house insects in the Philippines. Usually, you can find them in damp areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Here are the health risks of cockroach infestations:

• Disease Transmission: Cockroaches carry and spread diseases, including E. coli, salmonella, typhoid fever, and dysentery. They contaminate food and surfaces, which can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues and infections.
• Food Contamination: Cockroach droppings contain harmful bacteria that can contaminate food sources, which can lead to several health problems.
• Respiratory Issues and Allergies: Cockroach allergens found in their saliva, feces, and shed skin can trigger asthma attacks and worsen existing respiratory problems.

Rodents

Rodents, such as rats and mice, are known to carry multiple diseases and cause extensive damage to household items. They spread illnesses such as:

• Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by rodent urine. Filipinos typically get this bacterial infection when wading in floodwaters, especially during the rainy season. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, and jaundice.
• Hantavirus: Hantavirus is transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. It can cause severe respiratory issues and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which may lead to hospitalization or death.
• Salmonellosis: This foodborne illness is caused by Salmonella bacteria, often through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which can be severe in vulnerable individuals.

Rodents enter homes through small openings, cracks, and even plumbing pipes. They infest human homes to seek food, warmth, and shelter, so be wary of any entry points in your property and make sure to secure food sources and keep surfaces clean.

Other Common Insects in the Philippines That Can Cause Harm

In addition to the house insects mentioned above, other insects may not be life-threatening but can still cause health issues. These include ants, fleas and ticks, flies, and spiders.

• Ants: While some ants are relatively harmless, some species such as fire ants, red weaver ants, and bullet ants can bite or sting, inducing fever, excruciating pain, pustules, and allergic reactions.
• Fleas and Ticks: These pests are particularly problematic for homes with pets, as they can cause skin infections and transmit diseases like typhus or Lyme disease.
• Flies: Flies are health threats as they can carry over 200 pathogens and spread diseases like cholera, salmonellosis, and dysentery.
• Spiders: Some spider species can deliver venomous bites that cause allergic reactions or severe pain.

Why Pest Control is Essential

The presence of house insects in the Philippines and their health risks just show how difficult it is to manage them. DIY methods and preventive measures may work in the short term but often fall short when the infestation is severe. Many pests are challenging to locate and require specialized treatment. This is where professional pest control stands out as the best solution.

A reliable and reputable pest control company like TOPBEST Pest Services, Inc. offers comprehensive pest management strategies to effectively manage pest populations while ensuring the safety of your family. Our expertise in identifying, treating, and preventing infestations keeps properties and residents safe from the health risks posed by all the insects listed above. Here are the numerous benefits of hiring us:

• Customized Solutions: We tailor pest control plans to your home’s unique needs.
• Regular Inspections: The key to pest prevention is regular inspections. We catch problems early and conduct proper treatments before the infestation takes a turn for the worse.
• Disease Prevention: One of the main reasons why pests are dangerous is the diseases they carry. As a professional pest control company, our role goes beyond just getting rid of insects; we also protect you and your family from illness.
• Pest Control with Malasakit: At TOPBEST, we genuinely care about your family’s health and safety. We strive to protect what matters to you.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is pest-free allows you to live more comfortably.
• Cost-Efficiency: By eliminating pests that transmit diseases, you reduce health risks and the associated medical costs in the long run.

Keep Your Family Safe and Healthy with Pest Control

When it comes to safeguarding your family from health risks caused by pests, professional pest control is your ultimate defense! With our high-quality and dependable pest control services, you can combat common insects in the Philippines and ensure that your home doesn’t become infested. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.