B6 Reducing the negative effects of animals, insects and vermin
People’s health can be adversely affected by contact with animals, vermin and insects in the living environment. It is important to consult residents and housing managers about the animals, vermin and insects that are commonly found in the local area and incorporate design strategies to minimise the negative impact on people.
Dogs can carry and transmit bacteria and parasites, which may cause the following conditions in children and adults:
- skin infections
- diarrhoeal disease such as Giardia, which is a common cause of chronic diarrhoea in young children
- chronic gut parasite infection.
Yard fencing, verandah fencing and gates, screened doors and high shelves rather than low cupboards in kitchens, are strategies that can reduce the negative health impacts of dogs on people.
Examples from around Australia of health risks that may be caused by animals, insects and vermin, include:
- Some types of flies can spread eye infections
- Mosquitoes can carry potentially life threatening viruses such as Japanese Encephalitis and Dengue Fever
- Dust mites and cockroaches have been linked to the incidence of asthma
- Contact with some caterpillars and beetles can cause serious skin irritation
- Vermin, such as mice and rats, can spread disease by contaminating food and food preparation and eating surfaces
- Vermin can also cause major faults in electrical cables in walls and ceiling spaces, which may lead to fires or electric shocks
- Camels, pigs, horses and donkeys may damage water taps and pipes, and contaminate the water supply.