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Invisible Insects (Cable Mites) – A Scenario
A pest management technician has been struggling with insect bite complaints in a large office building for several months. Just when the technician thinks the problem is solved, another call comes from maintenance complaining about office staff personnel being bit again. At this point, the technician is frustrated and asks for help.
Arrangements were made and both the technician and his supervisor arrive at the building early before the office staff arrive. The supervisor does a quick initial inspection, then asks the technician what he has done so far? The tech replies, “I’ve treated several times, mainly over in this area.” The area had several work station cubicles and a large open area with copy machines, paper shredders and shelving to store printer paper and such.
While inspecting the area, the conversation went something like this: (Supervisor) Have you found the insect that’s been biting them?
(Technician) No, but I’m pretty sure it must be fleas.
(Supervisor) Have you placed out any glue traps?
(Technician) No.
(Supervisor) Then how do you know fleas are the problem?
At this point, the technician admits he’s really not sure.
After a thorough inspection by both the supervisor and technician, they conclude no infestation exists. The supervisor points out the high amount of dust and paper shards in the entire space, especially in the area with the copy machines and paper shredders. His recommendation to maintenance is to clean the area of excessive dust and paper shards and install humidifiers to use during periods of low humidity.
When the air is extremely dry, and static charge builds up on the skin which attracts airborne particles. When the particle attaches to the skin it causes an irritation that makes them scratch. Customers assume since they cannot ‘see’ the culprit, they’re being attacked by a very small insect of some kind and want a treatment for the infestation.
Remember the technician had been treating for fleas, which would increase the humidity in the office space. Relief would only last, at best, for a few days. Then, the complaints would start again.
Once again, no treatment should be performed until the culprit is found and identified as a pest we can treat for!