Do you or your Child have asthma? We may be able to help.

The bugs that appear to be causing the most trouble are Asian ladybugs (Harmonia axyridis), brought to the United States in the 1970s to control aphids and other agricultural pests in some eastern and southeastern states. Since then they've spread as far north as New England and as far west as Wisconsin and Missouri. Swarms of them have led to allergic reactions, primarily in the fall when the insects come indoors, where they hope to remain until spring.

In a report at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology in March, 2006, researchers from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Kentucky said that thousands of ladybugs have been found in some houses, including huge concentrations in basements where they can cover entire floors.

The Kentucky researchers also said that of 99 people who responded to an anonymous survey, half said that they were allergic to Asian ladybugs. Symptoms - including cough, stuffy nose, conjunctivitis, and asthma - appear to be worst during infestations in the spring, fall and winter.

As with any allergy, the best form of treatment is avoidance. U.S. Pest can get rid of your ladybug problems this fall by sealing off potential points of entry and treating the cracks and crevices where they may be harboring.  U.S. Pest can prevent and protect your and your family from this cute but annoying pest.