Understanding Bird Mites

Even if bird mites normally infest the birds, we must not underestimate the danger it can bring to people. If left untreated, it can cause allergic reactions to grave respiratory problem. The allergy can be simple or grave depending on the reaction of the infested person.

What are Bird Mites?

These are not usually seen by the naked eyes. But it can grow up to 2mm in length. It has four legs but it has no antennae. Normally it is transparent in nature. It adapts the color of the blood though when it starts feeding. It is parasitic thus the more blood sucked, the higher the risk of multiplication.

Bird mites usually live in birds and in their nests. Expect it to infest your house too if the nests are near the windows or blocks or if the birds can freely enter your home. They are active during spring and early summer. Once they have collected ample amount of blood from the birds, they can last up to 3 weeks before they search for another host. They can create a very huge population through rapid multiplication. Their life cycle is between 7-10 days.

Signs of Bird Mites Infestation in Humans

When these infest humans, the first reaction would be itching. There is also a heated sensation on the affected area. Since there is itchiness, prolonged scratching will result to skin lesions. Taking a warm bath can alleviate itching. Use loofah and Epsom salt when taking the warm batch. Use vinegar and water when shampooing your hair. Dry your hair and body with clean towel made of cotton. Before you wear your clothes, apply a deodorant with Aluminum Chlorohydrate. You can also spray this to your clothes. This ingredient will not only kill them but will also act as repellant to prevent these mites from coming back.

If the person has low immune system, the allergic reaction may worsen. Sever sneezing, wheezing, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. If this happens, there is no other thing to do but to seek medical help.

What to Do During Infestation

First thing to do is to determine the source. If you suspect that they have entered your house, you can spray pesticide yourself or seek a pest control service if the infestation is widespread already. When they are not active, they position themselves in group in dark areas like couches, cabinets, and other corners. They can also be reddish black especially if they just finished sucking blood from a host.

If the infestation is in your birds nests, its better to change to a new one. Remember to dispose the old nest properly as there is a huge possibility of transferring the mites to other spaces.

Prevention is still the Best Cure

Regular cleaning of your home will eliminate the occurrence of these mites. They love clinging to dark places or to where humans usually stay. Disinfect the mite prone areas regularly. Make sure that even corners are well lighted. If you clean the inside, don't forget the outside too. If you have birds at home, do your regular cleaning. Replace nests regularly. Dispose all wastes properly.

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