Earlier this month, a severe flea infestation forced a New York courthouse to temporarily close its doors. It’s rare for the U.S. judicial system, but it’s even more bizarre that the cause of this shutdown was due to a flea infestation. We all know how troubling these blood-sucking parasites can be, but apparently the problem was so bad that it stopped the normal judicial process.
About The Courthouse Flea Incident
The incident occurred on August 4 and 5 at the Orleans County Courthouse in Albion, New York. Witnesses say there were hundreds of fleas swarming throughout the building, which prompted officials to call a pest control company. An employee with the pest control company sprayed an unknown chemical agent in the courthouse, which unfortunately did not kill all of the fleas. To finish the job, the exterminator requested a second chemical application, at which point the courthouse closed its doors.
So, what caused the courthouse flea infestation? This is a question that remains unanswered. According to an article published by the Washington Post, there were 160 members of the public at the courthouse awaiting jury duty when officials were forced to close the building, all of whom were forced to go home for the day. The courthouse reopened the following day on August 6. Presumably, the flea infestation is now eradicated.
Summer Fleas Are Out In Force
News of this infestation reaffirms the nuissance these blood-sucking parasites cause, especially during the hot summer months. Fleas thrive in climates with warm temperatures and high humidity, making summer a prime time for flea activity. And even without the presence of dogs, cats or other household pets, fleas can make their way into buildings where they grow and thrive.
If you are struggling with a flea infestation — whether it’s inside your home, workplace, or elsewhere — you should focus on creating an unsuitable environment for these pests. Several studies have shown that fleas prefer temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer; therefore, dropping your thermostat to below this amount will discourage them from residing in your home. In addition, you can install a dehumidifier to extract the moisture from your air, which also discourages fleas.
Some chemical agents may prove useful in your battle against fleas, but these are ultimately short-term and not long-term solutions. If you was to exterminate them once and for all, you must lower the temperature and humidity, and take away their source of food. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to put your dog up for adoption, but instead treat them with a flea medicine like FrontLine Plus.