Dr. Phil Koehler, entomology professor, University of Florida, has found the highest incidence of allergy problems is associated with cockroaches. If they're hospitalized or sick, they're not in school. Other insect-related diseases and illness are increasing as well. Koehler notes the lack of any new product chemistries in the last 15-20 years has allowed lice to become resistant to the one pesticide that is most often used to treat head lice. Likewise, a sound pesticide registration system means new products to curb insect-related health problems must be proven safe before they are made available to the public.
Products go through a rigorous process before they are approved for use.
And, the similarity doesn t end there, he adds. Pesticide products, that rid homes, schools, parks and workplaces of unwanted insects, plant diseases and weeds, are as extensively tested for health, safety and consumer benefits as are antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals. Many years and dollars are invested in pest product development. The pesticide label, with its consumer instructions, is the proof that all products can be used effectively and safely. Every pesticide must successfully complete as many as 120 government-mandated tests before the Environmental Protection Agency considers label approval and product registration.