Winter Heating Gets Fleas Hopping

16 December, 2009

Now that the evenings are definitely colder and the feeling of frost is in the air, people all across Ireland have their heating switched on in preparation for a cosy Christmas! But it's not only humans who like the toastier indoor temperatures during winter! According to the experts at Rentokil, flea activity peaks as households turn up the heating and start spending more time indoors over the winter.
It seems that the combination of warmer conditions inside houses and the fact that we tend to stay closer to home creates perfect conditions for fleas. When the temperature inside homes is cooler and people are spending more time outdoors during the warmer months, flea cocoons can lie dormant only coming to life once we come inside and move around the house more regularly.

With the big heating switch-on, Dr Colm Moore, Technical Manager at Rentokil provides some insight into flea behaviour and how to identify if you have a problem:

"Fleas are a common problem in homes especially for those with cats and dogs. They are also frequently found when moving into a home that previously had pets.

The parasites can be easily identified; they are brownish-black wingless insects between 1 and 4mm long and have a characteristic jumping movement. Common places for them to appear include areas around animal bedding, on carpets, in bird nests and the primary concern is the distress that flea bites cause people and pets.
Fleas most often bite people around the legs and ankles, usually with 2 or 3 bites in a row. The bites are felt immediately and can be sore for as much as a week. Infants are at higher risk from being bitten by fleas particularly when playing on the floor. They also tend to be more sensitive than adults to flea bites. We would advise anyone who thinks they have been bitten by fleas to consult a pharmacist for advice and treatment of the bites.

With regards to removing the fleas from the home, simply vacuuming will not combat the problem, as the fleas jump to avoid the hoover. However, good housekeeping does have a role to play in preventing their presence as larvae feed on organic matter in carpets or bedding. Whilst DIY pest control products can be very effective in getting rid of fleas, more established flea infestations will require professional treatment."

For more information about Rentokil's call-out service to get rid of fleas call the national service team free on 1890 869 869.

- Ends -

###

Issued by Heneghan PR on behalf of Rentokil Ireland.

For further information, please contact:
Louise McNamee, Heneghan PR
Tel: 01 6607395
Email: louise@hpr.ie

Rentokil
Around the world, Rentokil is the leading provider of pest control and specialist hygiene services. The company protects homes and commercial premises from the damage, health risks and nuisance that pests cause. While flies, insects and rodents might be the first that come to mind, Rentokil technicians also provide specialist treatment against woodworm. Whatever the pest, Rentokil can deal with it.

For information about Rentokil services, visit www.rentokil.ie or call 1890 869 869.