Fly numbers set to soar as warm weather continues
By Mark Keane
As temperatures continue to soar this week, one unfortunate consequence is an increase in fly infestations, which are set to reach peak numbers due to the warm weather.
With Met Eireann forecasting that temperatures today (Tuesday) are expected to hit 24 degrees celsius, one might consider hosting a BBQ or having a picnic.
However, according to pest control provider Rentokil, these are beacons for disease-spreading flies.
Flies transmit the bacteria campylobacter, which causes diarrhoea
According to Rentokil, it has seen a 74 per cent increase in call outs to deal with fly infestations across Ireland.
As a result of the rapid growth in fly population numbers, the business has received more calls about fly infestations in the first five months of 2018 compared to the same period last year.
“Fly larvae take seven to 10 days to mature into adults, and in their lifetime they may produce 1,000 eggs”, said Dr Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager of Rentokil.
“Of all pests, flies are also responsible for causing the highest number of illnesses, even more than rodents and cockroaches.”
Tips to deal with flies
With the sun expecting to remain strong throughout the week, Rentokil has provided a number of tips to help deal with pesky flies, such as stressing the importance of keeping all bins covered.
Recommendations include, keeping kitchen doors closed at all times, avoiding the temptation to leave windows open at night, the installation of fly screens near waste areas and always keeping food covered.
For those who have pets, it’s extremely important to clean their faeces straight away as it is the perfect breeding place for flies.
Following these tips will help you avoid getting campylobacter, a bacteria that’s transmitted by flies and causes diarrhoea.
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