By Elaina Myers, Assistant Editor

Healthcare facilities operate under some of the most complex circumstances. Patients fight infections, recover from surgery and try to manage chronic illnesses. In these settings, even a small environmental issue can spiral into a serious problem, so pest management is not just a task on the to-do list. It is a critical component of protecting public health. 

Pests in healthcare facilities are far more than a simple nuisance.  

“Pests are capable of spreading germs and pathogens that can cause many illnesses,” says Dr. Jim Fredericks, senior vice president of public affairs with the National Pest Management Association.  

Common pests in healthcare environments 

Several pests present distinct health concerns in these environments. 

“Cockroaches tend to be the most problematic because they are known to spread more than 30 different bacteria,” Fredericks says. Cockroaches move fast, contaminating surfaces, food and medical supplies before anyone notices. They are also known triggers for asthma and allergies, which can worsen respiratory issues. 

Rodents — especially house mice — created added layers of trouble. These pests can carry and spread pathogens such as Salmonella and E. Coli on their fur and feet, and their droppings and urine are known allergens and can worsen asthma symptoms as well.  

Even pests that seem relatively harmless, such as house flies and bed bugs, can cause allergic reactions, skin infections and overall chaos among patients. Since flies move between waste and drains, they can transfer pathogens onto surfaces and food trays. On the other hand, bed bugs travel quietly between rooms and beds seeking blood, creating operational nightmares in hospitals and long-term care facilities, Fredericks says. 

The role of IPM 

An effective approach to pest control in healthcare facilities is integrated pest management (IPM). Rather than waiting for infestations to happen, IPM focuses on prevention and early action.  

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Fredericks describes IPM as “a holistic approach to pest control, by setting up a proactive plan to manage pests through early detection and monitoring,” adding that the goal is to cut down pest activity and unnecessary pesticide use, which is especially important around vulnerable patients. 

“Every healthcare facility should have a written pest management plan in place that’s tailored to the facility and covers everything,” Fredericks says.  

An effective IPM program identifies high-risk zones — places that provide food, water or shelter — where pests typically thrive. Eliminating those resources makes infestations less likely to occur, Fredericks says.  

Routine inspections, monitoring and sanitation form the backbone of IPM by helping facility teams minimize problems before they spread. These efforts help maintain healthier environments for patients and staff.  

Addressing structural vulnerabilities  

Facility design and maintenance also play a big role in allowing infestations to happen. Even the most effective pest management programs can fail if the building has weaknesses. 

Old plumbing and drainage systems are like secret highways througout the facility for pests. Over time, organic debris can build up inside drains creating breeding grounds for pests such as drain flies, Fredericks says. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help eliminate these issues. 

If not sealed properly, gaps in walls around pipes, cables and steam lines also can allow pests to enter. 

“A mouse only needs about a quarter-inch gap to squeeze into a building or through a broken drainpipe,” Fredericks says, adding that regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential to seal off these easy access points.  

Technicians also should regularly check loading docks, waste collection areas and exterior landscapes, Fredericks says. Keeping doors and windows properly sealed, waste collection areas clean and vegetation trimmed away from buildings can prevent pests from getting in, which in turn can save thousands of dollars in reactive pest control.  

Effective pest management in healthcare facilities is not just about the bugs. It is about the plans set in place to protect. It is a shared duty between facility managers, grounds crews and pest management professionals to ensure goals are being met. 

“IPM programs should be reviewed every year and updated whenever the building or campus changes and expands,” Fredericks says.  

By implementing a proactive approach, healthcare facilities managers can keep their buildings’ day-to-day operations from becoming a battleground between patients and pests.  

Elaina Myers is the assistant editor of the facilities market.