Iowa Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which pest control method may lead to symptoms such as respiratory discomfort and itchy eyes?

1. Herbicides

2. Insecticides

3. Rodenticides

4. Fungicides

The correct answer is: Insecticides

Insecticides are designed to control a variety of insect pests, and they often contain chemicals that can cause physiological reactions in humans when exposed. Symptoms such as respiratory discomfort and itchy eyes are common responses to certain chemicals found in insecticides, particularly those that might be aerosolized or applied in a way that leads to inhalation or direct contact with mucous membranes. Herbicides, while potentially harmful, usually target plants and may not exhibit the same immediate respiratory symptoms in individuals unless they are highly volatile. Rodenticides usually target rodents and involve ingestion rather than inhalation, thus presenting a different risk profile. Fungicides, which are aimed at controlling fungal diseases in plants, can also lead to reactions, but respiratory discomfort and eye irritation are more closely associated with insecticides due to their active ingredients designed to disrupt insect physiology and their application methods. Therefore, insecticides are the most likely cause of the symptoms mentioned in the question.