Mites
Arthropod pests most responsible for bites and itches of unknown origins. (a) flea (b) louse (c) bird mite (d) chigger (e) scabies mite. Note: scale indicating actual size. Courtesy of Michael Potter, University of Kentucky.
Mites are extremely small arthropods. There are over 45,000 known mite species, but only a few are known to attack and feed on humans. Mites are very sensitive to temperature and are susceptible to ThermaPureHeat®. A non-chemical process, ThermaPureHeat® is an effective method for eliminating both parasitic mites and dust mites. ThermaPureHeat® is also a potential treatment process for other arthropods known to be responsible for bites and itches, such as fleas, lice, chiggers, and scabies.
Parasitic mites are drawn to their hosts by sensing carbon dioxide and specific temperatures. Humans are not typically hosts of parasitic mites, however, when their normal hosts either die or vacate a nest these mites will seek another host. Ultimately, they are drawn into the home or structure to areas that experience the greatest level of human activity. As they seek new hosts they will migrate to rooms such as bedrooms, family rooms, kitchens and to work areas in commercial structures. They are also attracted to frequently used furniture such as beds, chairs, and sofas. They will bite the occupants while they are sleeping or just resting. The health effect of mite bites can vary, dependent on the victim, from no affect to severe skin irritation, rashes and itching. Some bites can be very painful. Additionally, parasitic mites may be vectors for pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
| Find a Pest Services Provider | I want to be a ThermaPure® Licensee |
Dust mites, unlike most mites, are not parasitic. Instead they feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and animals. Skin cells, often called dander, are heavily concentrated in beds, lounges and other locations where humans or animals tend to rest or congregate. The adverse health effects from dust mites results from exposure to house dust containing microscopic pieces of shed skin and feces. Affected individuals experience an allergic reaction though inhalation of the house dust oftentimes resulting in rhinitis or bronchial asthma.
Dust mite allergies are a significant health issue with estimates of over 10% of the human population and approximately 80% of allergy sufferers reacting to the proteins found in dust mite waste and dead body parts. Dust mite populations peak during hot, humid summer months and grow best at 75-80% humidity. They cannot survive in humidity below 50%. The number of dust mites and amount of debris that can accumulate under ideal conditions is staggering. For example, the weight of an average mattress doubles after ten years due to dust mite infestations and the weight of an average pillow will increase 10% per year. The most effective control measure for dust mite allergens is avoidance.
ThermaPureHeat® will kill the dust mite, capture significant amounts of aerosol generated by the convective heat process, and reduce the level of allergens in the affected space.
