Aphids, including woolly aphids, are not known to make humans sick. They do not transmit diseases to humans like mosquitoes or ticks do. So, in terms of causing illness, humans do not need to worry about being directly affected by aphids.
However, woolly aphids can still be a nuisance to humans. As mentioned earlier, they produce a substance called honeydew. Honeydew is a sticky, sugary liquid that aphids excrete as they feed on plant juices. This honeydew can fall onto surfaces below infested plants and create a mess. It can make outdoor areas, such as patios or decks, sticky and unpleasant to be in.
Additionally, honeydew can attract other pests, such as ants or bees, who are attracted to the sweet substance. This can lead to further annoyance for humans, especially if these pests start invading their homes or outdoor spaces.
In terms of personal experiences, I have encountered woolly aphids in my own garden. While they did not directly make me sick, their presence was definitely bothersome. The sticky honeydew they produced caused a mess on my outdoor furniture, and it attracted ants, which became a nuisance to deal with.
To summarize, woolly aphids do not pose a direct health risk to humans. However, their presence can be irritating and create inconveniences, mainly due to the honeydew they produce. It is important to take measures to control aphid populations and clean up any honeydew to avoid further issues.