infested

Infestation is the presence and often the proliferation of pests or parasites in or on a host, or in a space. It commonly refers to situations where organisms such as insects, mites, or rodents occur in numbers that cause disruption or damage. In medical contexts, infestation is typically used for organisms living on the outside of the body or in its vicinity, while infection is used for pathogens that invade and multiply within tissues. The term is also applied in ecology and agriculture to describe large populations of invasive species or pests that affect ecosystems and crops.

Infestations occur in a variety of settings. In agriculture, crops can be infested by insects like aphids or beetles, leading to yield loss and quality decline. In residential or commercial buildings, infestations may involve rats, mice, cockroaches, or termites, producing property damage and health concerns. In humans and animals, infestations include lice, fleas, mites, or ticks, potentially causing itching, irritation, or disease transmission. Infestations can also involve non-biological masses, such as mold or algae proliferating in damp environments, though these are typically described as colonization rather than infestation.

Signs of an infestation include visible pests, damage to wood or fabric, droppings, nests, unusual odors, bites, or allergic reactions. Causes include favorable climate conditions, poor sanitation, construction vulnerabilities, and accidental introduction through travel or commerce. Control measures span prevention, sanitation, exclusion of entry points, monitoring, mechanical removal, and, when necessary, chemical treatments. Integrated pest management emphasizes least-harmful methods and professional assistance for severe cases.