Did you know flies pose a more significant health risk than most people realize? While many Albany residents might brush off a fly sighting, these pests can carry and transmit dangerous bacteria wherever they land. Learn why flies are more than a nuisance and discover ways to protect your home or business from their health risks.

Flies vs. Roaches: Why Flies Are a Hidden Health Hazard

Most people would avoid food that a cockroach has touched, but flies are often overlooked—even though they can be just as dangerous.

• Disease Transmission: Flies can transmit harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and E. coli, leading to illnesses such as food poisoning, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
• High Contamination Risk: Every time a fly lands, it leaves behind germs that can cause serious health issues.

Flies pose a significant health risk in restaurants and homes alike, especially if they come into contact with food preparation areas.

Surprising Survey Findings on Flies in Restaurants

According to an industry survey, flies are a common sight in restaurants, yet often go unreported:

• Customer Reactions: 61% of customers would still eat their meal if a fly landed on it, while only 3% would continue eating if a cockroach crawled on their food.
• Frequent Sightings: Half of the survey respondents saw a pest in a restaurant in the past year, with 95% of these sightings involving flies.

Despite these numbers, many people don’t realize the health risks flies present, putting restaurant patrons at greater risk of exposure to harmful bacteria.

Why Flies Are Also a Problem in Albany Homes

Flies aren’t just a restaurant issue—they’re also common pests in homes across Albany. House flies carry over 100 pathogens associated with severe diseases, including:

• Typhoid Fever
• Cholera
• Bacillary Dysentery
• Hepatitis

These pathogens can lead to health issues when flies contaminate food, countertops, or utensils in the home.

Practical Tips to Keep Flies Out of Your Home

Preventing flies starts with sanitation. Here are simple but effective ways to keep flies away:

Maintain a Clean Environment

• Wipe Down Surfaces: Clean countertops and dining areas regularly.
• Promptly Clean Spills: Food and drink spills should be cleaned immediately.

Proper Food Storage

• Store Food Properly: Keep all food items in sealed containers.
• Secure Trash Cans: Use trash cans with tightly fitting lids and empty them regularly.

Following these steps can help prevent flies from contaminating your home.

Protect Your Albany Home or Business with Professional Pest Control

Flies may seem like a minor annoyance, but their ability to spread harmful bacteria makes them a serious threat to both homes and businesses. With a third-generation legacy, Thomas Pest Services is a trusted, family-owned company that offers pest control services throughout Albany, the Adirondack area, and the Capital Region.

Call us today at 518-861-4921 or contact us for a free pest control evaluation. Our professional pest control solutions keep your home or restaurant safe from flies and other health risks. Find out about our Complete Care program to keep all pests under control.