Since 1934, Program Brokerage Corp. has been the go-to insurance partner for pest management professionals nationwide. As the official endorsed broker of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), the firm brings industry-leading expertise and tailor-made coverage to keep your business safe and thriving.

Coverage you can count on:

• General Liability
• Property
• Inland Marine
• Umbrella Excess
• Commercial Auto
• Worker’s Compensation
• Nationwide coverage (excluding Alabama, Hawaii, South Dakota and Wyoming)

Customized. Cost-Effective. Trusted. Let PBC handle your insurance needs so you can focus on what you do best: protecting homes and businesses.

About PBC

Program Brokerage Corporation (PBC) is a powerful market resource known for its wide range of offerings and capabilities. The New York City-based firm is also a partner for carriers reaching out to the commercial insurance buyer in innovative, cost-effective ways and has pioneered an innovative approach to Purchasing Group Insurance buying, which has won popular acclaim.

ProgramBrokerage.com

<p>The post PBC: Pest Control Insurance first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

<p>The post Protected: Hantavirus scare is good reminder for rodent control basics first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Since its founding in 2017, World Pest Day has grown into a truly global observance, with pest management associations, companies and professionals across dozens of countries joining together each year to raise awareness of the industry’s essential role in protecting public health, food safety and the environment. The 2026 tagline — “Marking 10 Years of World Pest Day — United Around the Globe” — reflects a decade of that shared commitment.

Sponsored by Rollins, the GPMC has made resources available online to help member organizations, companies, and individuals participate in World Pest Day 2026, including sample social media posts and graphics. These materials are available at www.npmapestworld.org/wpd.

10th anniversary celebration at Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit

In addition to the global digital campaign, the GPMC will host a special 10th anniversary celebration on Friday, June 5, 2026, as part of the Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit at the Nina Hotel Tsuen Wan West in Hong Kong, China.

The summit, presented by the Confederation of European Pest Management Associations (CEPA), the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the Federation of Asian and Oceania Pest Managers Associations (FAOPMA), brings together pest management leaders from around the world and provides an ideal setting to mark this significant milestone.

The on-site celebration will recognize the history and global growth of World Pest Day and the pest management professionals who have championed it over the past decade.

“World Pest Day was founded on the belief that our industry’s work—protecting health, safeguarding food, and defending communities from the threats posed by pests—deserves global recognition,” said Manuela Cordeiro, president of the Global Pest Management Coalition. “Ten years later, that belief has only grown stronger. This anniversary is a celebration of every professional and organization around the world who has helped make World Pest Day what it is today, and a reminder of why our mission matters.”

World Pest Day 2026 resources, including social media content and graphics, are available to all GPMC member organizations and their members at www.npmapestworld.org/wpd. Organizations are encouraged to share these materials broadly in the days leading up to and on June 6 using the hashtags #DefendingHealthAcrossBorders and #WPD10.

<p>The post World Pest Day theme announced: Defending health across borders first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

“While Cetane’s appearance has evolved, we remain the same trusted team. The new site offers clearer navigation and easy access to the resources you rely on — including articles, webinars and press releases. Our aim is to bring our customers an online experience that’s as smooth and straightforward as the services we provide every day.”

About Cetane Associates

Cetane is a leading provider of financial advisory services to business owners in the propane, heating oil, pest control, lawn care, landscaping and HVAC & plumbing industries. Clients engage Cetane to advise on sales, spin-offs and acquisitions, as well as to perform valuation and ad hoc corporate finance assignments.

Cetane.com

<p>The post Cetane: Brand Refresh first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Key takeaways

• Climate as a catalyst: Most insects are ectothermic; early spring warmth shifts the seasonal starting line for activity forward.
• The precipitation paradox: Both extreme rainfall and extreme drought can drive pests toward human structures in search of moisture or refuge.
• Human nature vs. Mother Nature: Property maintenance — such as trash management and landscaping — is often the strongest predictor of future infestations.

Reading the climate scale

Forecasting pest pressure requires an ability to read environmental conditions on multiple scales — from broad regional climate patterns down to the specific condition of a client’s trash can. Because most insects are ectothermic, their reproduction and survival are strictly tied to ambient heat.

When spring temperatures arrive earlier than expected, the “starting line” for pest activity moves up. In these cases, you must shift into your spring management programs sooner to stay in step with the warming environment.

The impact of rainfall patterns

Precipitation is equally influential. Above-average rainfall creates a “perfect storm” by increasing humidity, standing water and vegetation growth, all of which amplify pest populations.

However, drought can be just as telling. When natural water sources disappear, pests struggle and begin to view urban environments as a reliable refuge. This moisture-seeking behavior leads to increased activity in and around homes and businesses as pests migrate toward man-made water sources.

Identifying human-led predictors

Some of the strongest indicators of pest behavior have less to do with the weather and more to do with human habits. How a client maintains their property offers a preview of future infestations.

Red flags on the property

• Harborage: Overgrown landscaping provides the ideal environment for pests to thrive.
• Entry points: Damaged soffits, missing door sweeps and leaking gutters create easy access for invaders.
• Sanitation: Poor trash management, including infrequent pickups and uncovered bins, acts as a beacon for incoming pest problems.

Conclusion

By understanding these environmental and structural signals, you can transition from a reactive service to a proactive partner. Predicting pest pressure doesn’t just offer a slight advantage — it allows you to strike first, protecting your clients’ health and property before the first pest ever crosses the threshold.

<p>The post Callback Cures: The advantage of predicting pest pressure first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

“We’re excited to honor so many clients with Pinnacle Performance Awards for 2025,” said Brian Post, CPA, managing member of PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists, in a news release. “Building a successful pest or lawn business takes relentless focus, effort and commitment. Watching these companies grow is incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to play a role in supporting their success.”

PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists provided the award winners with engraved plaques to display in their offices plus digital marketing resources to help them promote their recognition.

Among the Pinnacle Performance Award winners:

• Six clients achieved the $10 million milestone in 2025, including: Brooks Pest Solutions, Showscapes and Terra Garden Solutions
• 14 clients achieved the $5 million milestone in 2025, including: Admiral Pest Control, Alamo Pest Management, Debug Pest Control, Modern Exterminating and Petti Pest Control;
• 20 clients achieved the $3 million milestone in 2025, including: Absolute Pest Control, Akita Pest Control, D & T Pest and Termite Control, Lawn Doctor of Antioch, Royal Pest Services and Turf Magic
• 13 clients achieved the $1 million milestone in 2025, including: Accel Pest Control, CoverAll Pests and Pest Control Consultants of Wisconsin.

The following firms are among the Pinnacle Performance Award winners but prefer not to disclose their revenue: My Pest Pros, Eco Serve Pest Services, Hopper Termite & Pest, ProCare Pest Services, Perfect Pest Control Services and Centipede Enterprises. Some companies chose to keep their awards private.

About PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists

PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists is the only accounting and exit-planning firm specific to the pest management industry. We offer a range of services to help you grow your business, including managing your day-to-day accounting and bookkeeping functions, tax services and maximizing the after-tax value of your business when you’re ready to sell.

<p>The post 53 Firms awarded by PCO Bookkeepers & M&A Specialists first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

The back-to-back accolades underscore the company’s recent growth, strong workplace culture and commitment to both its employees and customers across New York State. Known for its “Better Than Yesterday” philosophy, Thomas Pest Services has cultivated an environment where team members are supported professionally and personally.

A destination employer

Further solidifying its reputation as a destination employer, Thomas Pest Services was recently featured in a CBS6 Albany “Trade Up” series, highlighting the company as a place where individuals can build meaningful, long-term careers without following a traditional four-year college path. The segment showcased a real employee’s story, emphasizing hands-on training, upward mobility, and the ability to earn a strong living while developing specialized skills in the pest management industry—an increasingly critical and in-demand field.

Community impact

Beyond workplace excellence, the company continues to lead with purpose. In March, Thomas Pest Services launched a month-long initiative in honor of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, raising $3,000 to support local nonprofit Jake’s Help from Heaven. The campaign, inspired by the owners’ daughter Riley, brought together employees, customers, and the community to raise both awareness and funds for individuals living with cerebral palsy.

“This recognition means so much because it reflects the voices of our team and the trust of our community,” said owners Bill Clark and Sarah Thomas-Clark in a news release. “We’ve always believed that if you take care of your people, everything else follows—from the service we provide to the impact we can make beyond our business. Whether it’s creating career pathways or rallying around causes close to our hearts, we’re proud of what our team continues to accomplish together.”

About Thomas Pest Services

Thomas Pest Services provides residential and commercial pest control solutions, combining modern techniques with a customer-first approach. The company’s footprint positions it to better serve the evolving needs of communities throughout the Capital Region and Hudson Valley.

<p>The post Thomas Pest Services celebrates awards, community impact first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Arrow is led by President and COO Tim Pollard, CEO Emily Thomas Kendrick, and Chairman Joe Thomas, a Pest Management Professional Hall of Fame inductee (Class of 2009). The company was founded in 1964 by industry veteran Starkey Thomas and his wife, Jean. Since acquiring its first company in 1988, Arrow has grown by partnering with pest control businesses that share its values and dedication to quality. Today, it stands as the largest family-owned pest and termite control company in the United States.

Arrow offers a full range of services, including pest control, termite protection, mosquito prevention, wildlife control and exclusion, handyman work, insulation services and new construction treatments. These services are available for both residential and commercial customers.

As a third-generation family business, Arrow respects the time and effort it takes to build a successful pest management company. The team understands the importance of creating strong foundations for lasting partnerships and works closely with acquisition partners to ensure a smooth transition for both customers and employees.

Whether you’re ready to sell or just exploring options, email mergers@arrowexterminators.com or visit online.

ArrowExterminators.com/mergers

<p>The post Arrow Exterminators: Merger Opportunities first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

In his new role, Nickerson will continue to dedicate 70 percent of his time to ensuring the Inside Sales team’s ongoing success, while focusing 30 percent in advancing the company’s sales enablement initiatives. In this new capacity, he will lead efforts to align the company’s sales, marketing and operations strategies, ensuring its teams are equipped with the tools, resources and training needed to engage customers effectively and drive results.

Nickerson joined Truly Nolen in 2006, most recently as the leader of the company’s inside sales division which he will continue to lead as operations manager, inside sales. Some of his other roles during his 20 years with the company include sales inspector, service office manager for the company’s Tucson flagship location, district sales trainer and Western Region sales manager.

Prior to joining the company, Nickerson spent three years in the retail industry as a salesman for Southwest Contractor Supplies in Tucson.

Nickerson’s sales background and proven training skills within the company has him ready for the next challenge. “I’m looking forward to improving our current processes to help streamline operations and remove friction points for both our customers and partner,” said Nickerson. “My favorite thing about working for Truly Nolen is that the collaboration across departments creates a true team environment where everyone has a voice and works together toward shared success.”

“Mike’s leadership, vision and commitment to continuous improvement have been instrumental in positioning Truly Nolen for future success,” said DJ Culberson, Director of Sales. “I am proud he is part of our team, and we are confident that his expertise, passion and innovative mindset will continue to elevate Truly Nolen as we strive to achieve even greater success.”

<p>The post Truly Nolen adds to senior leadership team first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

There is something unique, almost magical, about a well-run family business. Having the opportunity to transition that legacy to the next generation is a true blessing and a special milestone for any owner.

Key takeaways

• Intentionality is key: Successful succession requires a well-thought-out, multi-year plan rather than a sudden handoff.
• Start from the ground up: Future leaders should gain “field” experience early to understand the mechanics of the service before managing people.
• Diversify experience: A successor needs exposure to various roles — from branch management to sales leadership — to build the confidence required for the CEO role.

The handoff begins with a plan

I consider myself blessed to have a family business that has grown into an incredible team. As I reach the age where my peers are looking toward retirement, I am fortunate not to face the need to sell. Instead, we are following a highly intentional plan of succession for my son, Bo Jenkins.

This hasn’t been a quick process; we have been working toward this since Bo graduated from college in 2014. Our goal is a transition into the CEO role over a structured period, ensuring he is fully prepared for the day he is in charge.

Learning the ropes: A 15-year roadmap

To prepare a successor for a multi-service, multi-branch operation, we developed a plan executed in broad strokes over 15 years:

• Field experience: Bo spent two years in the field at our Austin, Texas home office. He ran a pest control route and worked in our other divisions, learning the basics of the mechanical and lawn industries.
• Branch management: The next step was moving to a mid-sized branch to manage a team on his own. This was undoubtedly the best way for him to learn the nuances of the business.
• Sales leadership: After six years of branch management, he moved back to headquarters as the company sales manager. Having all sales from all divisions report to him provided valuable insight into the breadth of our services.

The path to the CEO role

Recently, Bo was promoted to VP of sales and operations. It is a significant role, but one for which he has earned tremendous confidence through his years of preparation. When we announced this promotion to the team, it was met with enthusiastic approval.

By having a family member transition into leadership, the pressure to sell the business evaporates. I am excited to watch this growth over the next three years as we move toward his final promotion to CEO.

Conclusion

A successful succession is not just about the owner being ready to leave; it is about the successor being ready to lead. By creating a structured path that values hands-on experience and departmental leadership, you ensure the business remains strong, stable and firmly in the family for years to come.

<p>The post Succession planning: Transitioning to the next generation first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Fran accepted the award at BOMA Westchester’s annual event on May 7 in recognition of her consistent commitment to clients, property managers, building owners and field teams across the region. The honor underscores the importance of behind-the-scenes roles that keep commercial properties running smoothly and maintain the efficiency and reliability of commercial property operations.

With 10 years at JP McHale, Dolan is a key liaison between clients and field operations. She manages a portfolio of high-profile property management accounts, oversees customer-satisfaction initiatives, leads the Smart & Wise rodent-monitoring program, coordinates technician service alerts and ensures timely, high-quality service delivery across multiple regions.

“Fran is an outstanding brand ambassador whose dedication to JP McHale shines through in everything she does,” said Eric Lopes, branch manager, Hudson Valley commercial division. “She consistently demonstrates professionalism with both colleagues and clients, always putting exceptional customer service at the forefront. Her insight, reliability and communication are vital to our daily operations and deeply appreciated.”

Nominated by JP McHale sales professional Robert Lupica, Dolan said the recognition is especially meaningful because her work centers on building trust and providing reassurance during stressful situations.

“People call us when something has upended their lives. It’s overwhelming for them,” Dolan said in a news release. “I strive to listen and respond with empathy. Reassuring someone that we’re here to help brings relief — that’s why I value these relationships so much; they are built on trust and understanding.”

Dolan emphasizes that empathy, clear communication and responsiveness are essential to effective customer service, especially when addressing urgent pest issues. The BOMA Westchester award follows a prior internal recognition for operational excellence, further highlighting Dolan’s ongoing contributions to JP McHale’s commitment to service quality and client satisfaction.

<p>The post JP McHale administrator recognized for service first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Vanecto Cockroach offers:

• Uncompromising efficacy against a broad spectrum of cockroach species, including German, American, brown-banded and more
• Reduced-risk status from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with no signal word and no personal protective equipment
• Control of tough populations with known or suspected resistance 
• A highly attractive bait matrix 
• Enhanced secondary and tertiary transfer

About Syngenta PPM

Based in Greensboro, N.C., the U.S. Syngenta Professional Pest Management division is part of Syngenta Group, a worldwide manufacturer headquartered in Switzerland. Among its many initiatives, Syngenta actively partners with conservation groups around the world to maintain natural environments and eradicate pests that threaten native species. As a developer of innovative pest control products, Syngenta works with conservationists to provide solutions to aid wildlife recovery efforts that help communities boost nature-based tourism and fuel economic growth.

Last year, Syngenta marked the 25th anniversary of its founding by the merger of Novartis Agribusiness and Zeneca Agrochemical. This milestone caps a quarter-century of innovation built on a legacy extending back more than 250 years to the founding of the Swiss chemical company Geigy in 1758. Today, Syngenta Crop Protection includes a line-up of approximately 37 seed treatments, 54 herbicides, 44 fungicides, 21 insecticides and counting.

Plus, 2026 PestPartners℠ 365 Program members will earn a yearlong rebate on Vanecto Cockroach of at least $2 per four-pack through Sept. 30, 2026.

SyngentaPMP.com/VanectoCockroach

<p>The post Syngenta: Vanecto Cockroach first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Key takeaways

• The uric acid trigger: A buildup of uric acid in worker termites weakens their immune systems and increases susceptibility to pathogens, leading to colony failure.
• Social structure shifts: Colony collapse is often preceded by changes in reproductive structure, such as when workers must replace a lost king or queen.
• Biodiversity breakthrough: Researchers have identified Cryptotermes mobydicki, a new drywood termite species with a unique, whale-like head shape.

The physiological cost of colony collapse

New research from Kyoto University has identified a specific physiological trigger for termite colony collapse: the accumulation of uric acid within worker populations. Focusing on the Japanese termite (Reticulitermes speratus), researchers found that this waste product buildup leads to weakened immune responses and higher mortality rates among the worker caste.

“Insect colonies, maintained by the cooperation between queens, kings and workers, can suddenly collapse,” says lead author Dr. Takao Konishi. The study aimed to uncover the exact molecular factors contributing to these sudden breakdowns.

Reproductive shifts and chemical imbalance

The team’s fieldwork revealed that changes in a colony’s reproductive structure — specifically when a worker is forced to take the place of an injured or killed queen or king — seem to prompt this uric acid accumulation. By artificially increasing these levels in the lab, the researchers confirmed a reduction in the insects’ immune responses and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Dr. Konishi notes that future studies will investigate if this phenomenon extends to other social insects like ants and honeybees.

A “Whale” of a discovery in the rainforest

Dr. Rudi Scheffrahn, a leading termite expert and North America’s only termite taxonomist, recently helped discover a new drywood termite species in the South American rainforest treetops.

Meeting the Moby Dick termite

The new species, Cryptotermes mobydicki, earned its name — and its common name, the “Moby Dick termite” — due to its comical and unique physiology. The termite possesses a massive head and recessed mandible that bear a striking resemblance to a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus).

While the species is not considered a pest, Dr. Scheffrahn emphasizes that its discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the vast biodiversity still waiting to be cataloged in the world’s most remote environments. “This termite is unlike anything we’ve ever seen,” Scheffrahn remarked, bringing the total number of known South American Cryptotermes species to 16.

For more on the discovery: https://www.rudolfscheffrahn.com/

Final thoughts

Whether it is the internal chemical balance that maintains a colony’s health or the physical evolution of species in the wild, the study of termites continues to offer surprising insights into the complexity of social insects. Understanding these mechanisms not only aids in biological science but helps the industry appreciate the sophisticated nature of the pests we manage every day.

<p>The post Termite colony collapse: The role of uric acid and species discovery first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Although recent headlines and media reports may suggest parallels to COVID-19, such comparisons lean toward sensationalism, inadvertently causing unnecessary alarm among the public. The scientific evidence simply does not support the idea that hantavirus has the potential to become a global pandemic. The fact remains that it is a rare disease.

Since the CDC began requiring surveillance and reporting of HPS (hanta pulmonary syndrome), there have been only 890 reported cases. Of those 890 cases of hanta infection, 859 became full blown HPS involving cardiopulmonary issues, and 31 patients showed only positive infection that was non-pulmonary and a mild illness. Of those 859 patients with HPS, 35 percent of infections were fatal. That fatality rate is concerning, and we should continue to invest in treatment research to improve that statistic.

Looking at the epidemiology of who and where HPS occurred, facts show 94 percent of cases occurred west of the Mississippi, primarily in the desert southwest areas of Arizona and New Mexico. The mean age of an infected individual was 39 years old; 62 percent were males; 75 percent were white, non-Latino/Hispanic.

Considering these facts through 2023 it appears that middle-aged white men who hunt, fish, hike or stay in desert southwest areas are far more prone to be exposed than the average population. This doesn’t mean it can’t occur east of the Mississippi, in females, in younger or older people of different races. It does. But rarely.

How are you exposed to Hantavirus?

Hantavirus (Sin Nombre virus in North America and Andes virus in South America) particles are shed by rodents in their droppings, urine and saliva.

Most exposure occurs when individuals attempt to tidy up rodent waste and particles are inhaled. For instance, a hunting lodge or vacation home that has remained unoccupied throughout the winter provides a perfect environment for a rodent infestation. Rural, farming and wooded areas where rodent habitat is greatest are more likely a potential exposure source. Human exposure can also be associated with a bite or scratch from a rodent.

In the western United States, the primary rodent associated with the virus is the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) and in the eastern United States, it is the white footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus).

The Andes virus of South America is the only Hantavirus strain ever associated with person-to-person transmission in close contact and the one associated with the recent cruise line concern. The cruise currently in the news originated in Argentina. Per the latest news reports, “patient zero” (the first person on the ship to test positive) was orthinologist Leo Schilperoord, who was bird-watching on a landfill that had an active infestation of long-tailed pygmy rice rats (Oligoryzomys longicaudatus).

Should people avoid cruises?

Travelers should not hesitate to book a cruise. All forms of mass transit, including cruise ships, airplanes and trains, undergo regular pest management and fumigation cycles to eliminate potential rodents and other vermin during downtime. Despite the unresolved details surrounding the recent cruise ship incident, these modes of transportation remain safe for your travel.

What are the symptoms of Hantavirus?

It can take up to eight weeks for exposure to these particles to manifest themselves as symptoms. Unfortunately, symptoms may initially mimic other illnesses like influenza  in the form of fever, chills, body aches, nausea, etc., and may be misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed for a period when supportive care would be most beneficial.  A blood test can reveal the hantavirus IgG antibody definitively for diagnosticians that are on the ball and suspect it.

Hantavirus prevention: What are the facts?

Although not zero, the risk of acquiring Hantavirus is incredibly low.

Exposure can be eliminated by adopting effective rodent control measures including exclusion and sealing of areas conducive to rodent entry and activity, trapping, use of sealed trash receptacles, and storage of attractive foods in hard glass or airtight containers.

Avoidance of rodent waste and nests is paramount for homeowners, hikers, hunters and others. When cleaning rodent waste, it’s critically important to wear gloves and an N95 mask. Wet down any droppings with a weak ammonia solution prior to sweeping or cleaning up the excrement, as this prevents the particles from becoming aerosolized and potentially being inhaled.

More on hantavirus

1. What to know aobut the latest hantavirus outbreak
2. Hantavirus risks: How to clean up after rodents

<p>The post Keep calm and get educated on hantavirus first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

Top spots

While Los Angeles, Chicago and New York City hold the top three spots, the broader top 50 list shows mosquito activity expanding beyond traditional hotspots and reaching more regions across the country.

Data over time shows a clear geographic change. For six consecutive years, from 2015 through 2020, Atlanta held the top spot. Since 2021, Los Angeles has ranked No. 1, marking a shift in the highest levels of mosquito activity. A pest issue that was once concentrated in the Southeast has evolved into a nationwide concern, with cities across every region now facing risks from this pest.

Beyond being a nuisance, mosquitoes are the deadliest animal in the world, responsible for more than 600,000 malaria-related deaths each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the U.S., they can spread serious diseases including West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Zika. Additionally, mosquito-borne diseases that were once rare or uncommon in the U.S., such as dengue fever, are rising significantly, making prevention especially important as activity increases during peak season.

Orkin’s public health campaign

As part of its ongoing commitment to public health, Orkin continues its partnership with the American Red Cross through its Mosquitoes Don’t Deserve a Drop campaign, helping raise awareness of mosquito-borne risks while supporting the nation’s blood supply during peak season. From May to August 2026, for every mosquito control service purchased, Orkin will donate $25 to the American Red Cross, up to $250,000.

Full listed rankings

The rankings are based on the number of new residential mosquito treatments performed by Orkin from March 18, 2025, to March 18, 2026.

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen mosquito activity expand beyond traditional hotspots and become a nationwide concern,” said Shannon Sked, Orkin entomologist, in a news release. “While major cities continue to experience consistent pressure, emerging trends — especially in the Midwest — show how shifting climate conditions and the expanding range of the yellow fever mosquito are creating new hotspots across the country.”

Midwestern cities continue to see some of the fastest growth year-over-year, with Milwaukee jumping 15 spots to No. 23 and Minneapolis climbing six spots to No. 13. At the same time, some historically high-ranking cities saw declines, with Miami and Greensboro, N.C. each dropping five spots.

Quick guide to mosquito prevention

To help reduce mosquito activity, Orkin recommends using the acronym BITE to remember key prevention steps:

• Block access to skin by wearing long sleeves and pants, as well as CDC-recommended repellents.
• Install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.
• Trim shrubs, grass and other vegetation to reduce mosquito resting areas.
• Eliminate standing water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

About Orkin, LLC  

Founded in 1901 by Pest Management Professional (PMP) Hall of Famer Otto Orkin (Class of 1999), Atlanta, Ga.-based Orkin is a leader in pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects. Orkin has 358 owned-and-operated branch offices and 47 franchises in the U.S. The company, owned by Rollins Inc., also has international franchises and subsidiaries in Canada, Europe, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, the Mediterranean, Africa and Mexico. Gary Rollins, Rollins’ Executive Chairman Emeritus of the Board, is also a member of the PMP Hall of Fame (Class of 2012).

<p>The post Los Angeles named worst city for mosquitoes first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>

At this point, most people have heard about the MV Hondius, an Oceanwide Expeditions cruise ship that has recently tied to residents across the globe being strictly monitored for hantavirus.

As of May 11, 2026, seven people have been confirmed to have hantavirus, with two others are suspected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Passengers disembarked the cruise ship in the evening of Sunday, May 10, 2026. Seventeen American passengers were flown to the U.S. on a plane sent by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and taken to a biocontainment unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center out of precaution. One American tested positive, though it is unconfirmed whether that passenger experienced any symptoms; he or she was treated separately from others.

Seven Americans returned home from the cruise prior to May 10 and have been monitored by state health officials. None have shown symptoms of hantavirus.

While it is easy to panic, considering the recent COVID-19 global pandemic, there are many ways to keep your customers at ease as this story develops throughout the news cycle.

What to know about the recent outbreak

While hantavirus is typically a rodent-borne virus, spread to humans typically through contact with infected rodent feces or saliva. Officials recently confirmed this particular strain to be the Andes virus, which can, in limited cases, be transmitted human-to-human.

The WHO has insisted risk to the general public is very low. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s Emerging Diseases and Zoonoses and COVID-19 technical lead, said in a news release, “This is not the start of a pandemic … While this is a serious incident, WHO assesses the public health risk as low.”

As noted in the WHO video above, human-to-human transmission has been documented only for Andes virus in the Americas and remains uncommon. When it occurs, transmission between people has been associated with close and prolonged contact, particularly among household members or intimate partners, and appears most likely during the early phase of illness, when the virus is more transmissible.

More details about hantavirus

1. How to talk to clients about rodent disease risks

2. California hantavirus deaths raise questions

3. Rodent control insights from 9 industry leaders

4. PMP resource library

<p>The post What to know about the latest hantavirus outbreak first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>