Vampires Won’t Be The Only Blood-Suckers Out This Halloween

The National Pest Management Association shares tips to stay protected from blood-sucking pests while enjoying the spooky holiday festivities

FAIRFAX, VA (October 29, 2018) – As children put on their costumes and prepare for trick-or-treating, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) would like to remind parents to take the proper precautions to keep their children protected from blood-sucking insects this Halloween. Although the summer months tend to be the most active time of year for mosquitoes, ticks and bed bugs, these pests can continue to spread germs through their bites that can lead to dangerous diseases across the United States, even when the temperatures drop well into fall.

“Pests like mosquitoes and ticks are still a problem in much of the country come October 31 with the temperatures staying warm enough for them to survive,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Ticks and mosquitoes are well-known vectors for deadly diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, West Nile virus and Zika virus. And, bed bugs will continue to be a threat inside of homes throughout fall and winter. So, make sure to stay protected from these creepy crawlers during your trick-or-treating fun.”

Follow these tips recommended by NPMA to avoid being bitten by one of these blooding-sucking insects:

• Double check your trick-or-treater’s costume for ticks
• Be sure to wear long sleeves and pants when riding on a hayride
• Wash your sheets often to get rid of any creepy, crawly bed bugs (especially if you’re using a pillowcase to collect candy)
• If you’re traveling for fall festivities, thoroughly inspect your hotel room by checking the bed, couches and dressers for bed bugs
• Screen windows and doors, and repair tears in screens to prevent mosquitoes from flying inside your haunted house

For more information about these blood-sucking pests or to contact a licensed pest control professional, visit PestWorld.org.

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About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.