What are the potential health risks associated with pest infestations?

The correct choice highlights the significant health risks linked to pest infestations, particularly the potential for allergies and the transmission of diseases. Pests such as rodents and insects can carry various pathogens. For example, rodents are known vectors for diseases like hantavirus and salmonella, while insects like mosquitoes can transmit illnesses such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. Additionally, pest droppings, saliva, or shed skin can act as allergens, leading to allergic reactions or exacerbating asthma in sensitive individuals.

The mention of allergies emphasizes that the presence of pests can trigger health issues that affect one's respiratory and overall health. This is particularly concerning in environments where exposure to pest allergens may be frequent, such as homes, schools, and workplaces.

Other options mention specific health issues, but they do not encompass the broad range of risks that pests pose in terms of both direct disease transmission and indirect allergic reactions, making the selection focused on allergies and disease transmission the most comprehensive in this context.