Fish-like bugs 'hiding in Brit homes and laying dozens of eggs a day'
Grim "fish-like" bugs that lay up to 60 eggs a day could be thriving in the walls of your home and eating your dead skin and hair, an expert has warned.
Silverfish have been found across UK properties but an expert has warned that the insects who make their homes in small crevices lay dozens of eggs daily. He also warned that their eggs could leave behind nasty side effects.
The "fish-like" bugs also have their favourite spots in around the house including small cracks in the skirting boards or behind the washing machine. Speaking to the Daily Star, one expert revealed how to tackle the insects and the "moulting process" silverfish undertake and get rid of the creatures in your home once and for all.
Paul Blackhurst, technical academy head at Rentokil, said: "In large numbers, silverfish can cause damage to books, photographs, paintings, plaster, and other household items containing starch or cellulose." The expert warned that silverfish were attracted to food sources like "paper, book bindings, damp clothing as well as human debris, dead skin and hair."
An outbreak in 2021 saw reports of silverfish which could lay a worrying amount of eggs daily (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Previous reports have confirmed that silverfish can lay 60 eggs daily, meaning a mass infestation of silverfish is possible. An outbreak in 2021 saw reports of silverfish which could lay a worrying amount of eggs daily.
London flat for rent for £1,400 a month with bed tucked away in kitchen cupboard
Whilst the insects are not poisonous they shouldn't be left to thrive. Blackhurst confirmed that silverfish could cause "skin irritations" if they came in contact with skin. He added: "This is because silverfish shed their skins throughout adulthood in a process known as 'moulting'."
Those who are particularly sensitive or have allergies could be more sensitive to the creatures as their moulting process can mix with dust and trigger allergic reactions. Blackhurts said: "The particles produced by this process can mix with dust and trigger an allergic reaction in some people more sensitive to skin irritation."
It can be troublesome to get rid of silverfish infestations as they can be difficult to locate. Blackhurst added: "Silverfish eggs are usually difficult to locate, as they are often hidden in tiny cracks or crevices. Prevention is better than a cure for silverfish."
To prevent infestations Blackhurst recommends utilising dehumidifiers and moving any accessible products that the insects will be attracted to and could consume out of reach. It's also advised to seal cracks and crevices around windows and doors. It's also important to keep areas that could be poorly ventilated dry such as kitchens and bathrooms wand under sinks, cabinets, windows, door frames, laundry corners and along the bathtub.
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