LADYBUG INFESTATION

In the late 1900s, farmers imported Asian ladybugs (Harmonia axyridis) for the purpose of controlling agricultural pests. Gradually these ladybugs replaced native species.  As weather in various locales gets seasonally cooler, large swarms of Asian ladybugs invade homes seeking shelter from the cold.  People of all ages have reported that their allergy symptoms became more severe during a ladybug infestation.  Allergy sufferers needed more medications to control related symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezing, and rashes.  Studies discovered that Asian ladybugs release a protective chemical to deter predators, and this chemical can cause allergic responses in humans.  Blood tests performed on people with a suspected ladybug allergy have identified antibodies to the chemical that the Asian ladybugs produce.

P.S.  A vacuum cleaner can be used to collect and remove ladybugs from the home.  Be sure to discard the disposable bag as soon as possible.

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