(NAPSA)—When people relocate, there’s a numberof things that can bug them—including the bugs. Often, moving to another part of the country means you are likely to encounter insects and pests for which you may not be prepared. For example, people who move to the Northeast may be surprised to learn that tiny deer ticks transmit Lyme disease. Over 23,000 cases of this neurological illness were reported in 2002, with almost 95 percent occurring in the Northeast. Other species of tick are behind the spread of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in the West. Moving from northern states to the Southeast may expose people to an unfamiliar ant species that can pose a serious health threat. A move to the southern United States can introduce them to the dangers of stepping on a fire ant mound and having the feisty red ants swarm uptheir leg, stingers poised and ready. Stinging insects, including the fire ant, send over 500,000 people to the emergency room each year. Those whorelocate to the western states may find mosquito stings an unwanted nuisance. In Colorado alone, over 2,450 people contracted West Nile virus in 2008—nearly one-quarter of all cases logged nationally. Relocating to southwestern states such as Texas or Arizona means you have to be aware that scorpions, which are nocturnal pests, like to hide in dark places during the day—including clothing, hats, shoes or other itemsleft on the ground, such as baseball gloves. When these inhabited items are worn or used, the scorpion stings in retaliation. Moving to a different part of the country can mean exposure to new insects—some of which can posea health threat. According to National Pest Management Association (NPMA) Public Affairs Director Cindy Mannes, “People who move can be great prey for pests. Locals know how to avoid dangerous pests and leave pest management up to the professionals. It is increasingly important that individuals know what pests to look for, how to avoid them and what to do if they cross your path.” To help, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has developed a Web-based resource at www.pestworld.org that lists pests by region and gives helpful tips for avoiding them. The NPMAis a professional organization knowledgeable about pests and the public health and property threats they pose. The organization is committed to educating consumers about these issues. Get the bugs out of your move by educating yourself about potential pests that make different parts of America their home.
