Soaring temperatures bring surge in summer pest infestations

Daily Tribune

11 hours ago

Rising summer temperatures have once again triggered a spike in insect infestations across the Kingdom, causing concern among households and raising fresh alarms over hygiene and public health.
Pest control expert Khalid Al Borshaid has warned that the current heat and humidity provide ideal conditions for several invasive species, including American and German cockroaches, bedbugs, crickets, ants, and even venomous centipedes.
'Bedbugs are particularly on the rise, often hitching rides in luggage and clothing during the travel season,' he said. 'They easily move undetected between airports, hotels, and homes.'
Fruit flies have also returned in large numbers and are frequently found in crates of imported produce. Al Borshaid cautioned against bringing such crates indoors — particularly those from certain Asian countries — as they may harbour hard-to-eliminate pests.
Ticks remain a persistent issue in homes with pets, such as cats, dogs, or birds. Spiders and the venomous centipede known locally as Um 44 are also being reported more frequently in rural and agricultural areas.
Among the most common household pests this season are tiny ants, which often infiltrate homes through neglected or poorly sealed drainage pipes.
Al Borshaid urged residents to disinfect kitchen and bathroom drains at the start of the season using approved insecticides or safe alternatives. 'Regular cleaning and disinfection of drains can prevent infestations before they start,' he advised.
Travel tips and safety precautions For returning travellers, he recommended washing clothing in hot water and disinfecting luggage, as insect eggs can cling to fabric and go unnoticed.
'Hot water is especially effective in killing pests and their eggs,' he noted. He also stressed the importance of ventilating homes after using pesticides — even if the product is labelled odourless. Spraying should never be done in bedrooms, on beds, or in children's rooms, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to chemical residues.
Additional precautions include:
• Removing standing water from courtyards and flowerpots
• Storing food in tightly sealed containers
• Regularly cleaning kitchen surfaces and floors
• Installing mesh screens on windows
• Sealing any cracks in walls or around pipes to prevent pest entry
Al Borshaid concluded with a reminder that effective pest prevention begins at home. 'The daily habits of residents are the strongest line of defence against summer pests,' he said.