Raccoons can be a health risk, transmitting germs to humans. Hence, it’s crucial to deter raccoons from entering your pool and to watch for raccoon feces. Raccoon feces may contain the eggs of a parasite called Baylisascaris procyonis, which can lead to severe neurological diseases in humans, especially children.
What is Baylisascaris?
Baylisascaris is a roundworm parasite that primarily infects raccoons and is present throughout the United States. Exposure to Baylisascaris eggs can make humans ill.
What Illness Does Baylisascaris Cause?
Baylisascaris infections are rare in humans. Ingesting a few eggs may cause minimal symptoms, but consuming a large number can result in serious neurological or ocular diseases.
How Is Baylisascaris Transmitted?
The parasite spreads when humans ingest Baylisascaris eggs found in raccoon feces. These eggs can contaminate soil, water, or objects.
For additional information, visit the CDC Baylisascaris Website.
What To Do If Raccoon Feces or a Dead Raccoon Is Found in Your Pool?
Although pool chlorine eliminates most germs, it doesn’t destroy Baylisascaris eggs. If you discover raccoon feces or a dead raccoon in your pool, close the pool to swimmers and then:
- Test for Baylisascaris, following the guidelines described below.
- OR
- Clean the pool without testing, as described below.
How to Test for Baylisascaris
- Wearing disposable gloves, collect the feces or remove the dead raccoon. Seal the waste in plastic bags. Dispose of gloves and wash your hands.
- Contact your local animal control or health department for feces testing.
- If the test detects Baylisascaris eggs, clean your pool according to the guidelines below.
How to Clean a Contaminated Pool
Since Baylisascaris eggs are resilient, chlorine won’t kill them. If you’ve confirmed an infection, you have two cleaning options:
Close the pool until the cleaning process is complete.
Option 1:
- Filter the pool for at least 24 hours, then backwash the filter.
- Replace the filter material, following hygiene precautions.
Option 2:
- Backwash the filter, drain the pool, and hose it down.
- Replace the filter material, following hygiene precautions.
- Refill the pool.
How to Deter Raccoons from Your Pool
Raccoons frequently return to familiar defecation sites and are drawn to human activity. They often defecate in shallow pool areas. Here are some prevention tips:
- Cover frequented areas of the pool.
- Maintain a closed fence around the pool.
- Discourage activities like outdoor feeding, which may attract raccoons.
- Contact a pest control service like On Demand Pest Control for animal relocation.
Safeguard Your Pool with On Demand Pest Control
Raccoons causing havoc in your swimming area can be more than a simple nuisance; it’s a health hazard waiting to happen. The danger of Baylisascaris infection should never be overlooked. This is a concern that extends far beyond Davie, affecting pools across Southeast and Southwest Florida in areas like Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach.
Our specialized treatments are designed to be effective and environmentally responsible. Our expert team is equipped to handle raccoon problems quickly and efficiently, helping you reclaim the sanctity of your pool and the safety of your family.
Why Take the Risk? Contact Us Today!
When it comes to preventing the spread of harmful parasites like Baylisascaris, time is of the essence. Ignoring the issue could put your loved ones at risk. Don’t gamble with their health; take action now.
Reach out to On Demand Pest Control for your customized treatment plan and a free quote. With our proven expertise, you can swim freely, knowing that your pool is a safe and clean environment.
