Scorpions

Scorpions: Deadly!
Not all scorpions are poisonous, but those that are can be deadly. Scorpions are found mostly in the Southwest and Western states. Symptoms of a sting include pain, swelling, itching, vomiting, increased sweating, and vision problems. Get medical care immediately

Mosquitoes:

Mosquitoes: More Than Irritating!
Mosquitoes aren't just annoying. Scratching a bite can cause a skin infection. Also, mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus, dengue fever, and other diseases. To protect yourself from mosquitoes, apply insect repellent and cover up when you go outdoors. Use window screens, and get rid of standing water in your yard.

Houseflies

Houseflies: Dirty, Hairy!
A housefly is a dirty insect -- carrying more than 1 million bacteria on its body. It can spread intestinal infections by contaminating food. To control flies, keep food and garbage in closed containers and use window screens on your home.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches: Ugly Trouble
They're not just ugly. Cockroaches carry diseases like salmonella. When they die, the carcasses can trigger allergic reactions and asthma. If you live in a warm climate, getting rid of cockroaches can be difficult. It helps to use pesticides, keep a clean kitchen, and repair cracks and holes in floors and walls.

Bedbugs

Bedbugs: Hitching a Ride
Their name tells the tale, as these tiny insects tend to hide in bedding. They are often found in hotels, shelters, and apartment complexes -- and can hitch a ride into your home aboard items such as luggage, pets, and boxes

Bedbug Bites
Bedbugs leave itchy, red bites on the skin, usually on the arms or shoulders. More of a nuisance than a health hazard, it is possible to develop an infection from scratching. If you have an allergic skin reaction, use creams with corticosteroids and take oral antihistamines -- and see your doctor.

Fire Ants

Fire Ants: Ouch!
Fire ants look much like ordinary ants -- and are found in most of the Southeastern states. They produce large mounds in open areas and are aggressive when disturbed. During an attack, the fire ant latches onto the skin with its jaw, then stings from its abdomen. It may inject venom many times.

Fire Ant Bites
The fire ant sting typically causes red hive-like lesions that burn and itch. Painful pus-filled lesions can also occur. Cold packs, pain relievers, and antihistamines can help relieve the discomfort. A large number of stings may trigger a toxic or severe life-threatening allergic reaction. Get emergency care.

Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket

Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket
When a bee stings, it loses the stinger and dies. But a wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket can inflict multiple stings because it does not lose the stinger. These stings can cause serious reactions in people who are allergic to them.

Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket Stings
If you don't have an allergic reaction, simply remove the stinger, clean the sting site, apply ice, take oral antihistamine for itching, and take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief. If you have a severe anaphylactic reaction, lie down and carefully remove the stinger. Use an Epi-Pen (epinephrine) if you have one. Use a tourniquet above the sting to reduce absorption of the venom. Get immediate medical care.

Head Lice

Head Lice: Itchy!
In hair -- that's where you'll find lice. They like to hide near the neck and behind the ears. If you have lice, you likely got it from sharing a hat, brush, or other item with a person who has lice. Lice are itchy, but scratching can lead to infection. In severe cases, hair may fall out.

Head Lice Remedies
To kill lice and their eggs (called nits), use lotions, creams, or shampoos from the drug store or prescribed by your doctor. Wash clothing, bedding, and brushes to prevent the spread of lice. Check all household members, and treat everyone who has nits or lice