Do Termites Make You Sick?

Termites don’t cause much damage to your health. However, there are some things you need to know about them. While they may not bite or sting you, they can spread pathogens that could lead to disease. In addition, they can also cause respiratory issues.

Termites can spread mold. When they chew through wood, they release spores. Mold spores can cause asthma, neurological problems, and fungal infections. These spores can also travel through the air, and can land on your skin or food. Inhaling these spores can cause a cough, irritated throat, and weakness.

Termites are not toxic, but they can still sting you. A sting can be painful, and they can leave you with a red, swollen rash. Fortunately, most stings go away on their own within a day.

If you are allergic to the fungus found in termite droppings, you can suffer from serious infection. If you have a strong immune system, you may be able to ward off a sting, but some people are more prone to an allergic reaction. Symptoms include swelling, itching, and burning.

Some insects, such as cockroaches, are known to produce proteins that induce allergic reactions. Having mold in your home can also cause you to have allergy symptoms. If you have asthma, you are more likely to experience breathing problems, such as whistling sounds in your chest.

Several kinds of fungi live in termite colonies. Some of them, such as Treponema azotonutricium, combine nitrogen from the air with calories from the wood.

Continue reading:

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