Are Cockroaches Dangerous?

Did you know that according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), 63 percent of homes in the U.S. contain cockroaches and their particles, including saliva, droppings and decomposing body parts. These nuisance pests are on the hunt for food, water and shelter. Your home may be a great source for all three. While the number estimated in homes may be alarming, should homeowners worry about cockroaches being dangerous?If you have ever seen a cockroach scuttle in front of you in the bathroom, kitchen, or other area of your home, you probably understand the creep factor that goes into being startled by one of these pests. But after a quick yelp, is that all there is to it? Should you be concerned about your family's health or safety?

Do Cockroaches Carry Disease?

When we think about pests like mosquitoes and ticks, we often think about diseases like Lyme Disease or West Nile Disease. Cockroaches also carry bacterial pathogens. A Cambridge University identified 30 different species of bacteria associated with cockroaches living in close proximity to humans.In addition to this study, two other well known research studies have shown similar results in regards to cockroaches and bacteria causing diseases. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cockroaches carry bacteria that, if deposited on food, can cause salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO), reports that cockroaches have been known to play a role as carriers of intestinal diseases, such as dysentery, diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever.

Can Cockroaches Cause Allergic Reactions?

A 2012 article published in the Journal of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research, showed that cockroaches are one of the most common sources of indoor allergens.The fact is that cockroaches are not the most sanitary of pests given that they frequent garbage cans, trash, feces, and then run all over the place in your kitchen where food is prepared is the biggest strike against them. Add to that, the enzymes found in the excrement, shedding body parts, eggs, and saliva of cockroaches cause allergic reactions in many people and you have a recipe for an allergic reaction. Asthma is the most common allergic reaction found in humans.To counteract cockroach allergy symptoms, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications.

Are Cockroaches Poisonous?

Thankfully, cockroaches do not produce poisons of any kind. They have no ability to sting and very rarely bite humans. Their danger lies mostly in their unsanitary behaviors and the fact that they can spread bacterial diseases and well as cause allergic reactions, most especially in children.If you find that your home has an unsightly number of cockroaches lurking around, our specialists can help you relieve the anxiety by eliminating your cockroach problem.