Cockroaches are among the most common pests. When they invade a house or commercial building, they come out at night, breeding and searching for food in kitchens, pantries, garbage bins and drains.
For occupants who have to live with these unwanted roommates, however, the impact of a cockroach infestation goes far beyond a disturbing presence and unpleasant odours. They pose significant health risks.
Cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces
Cockroaches are a major cause of food contamination due to their affinity for human food. Cockroaches spread droppings and regurgitate on the food they eat and on the surfaces they come in contact with. These substances may contain pathogens including bacteria that are dangerous to humans.
These include E. coli (which causes food poisoning), staphylococcus aureus (which causes skin disorders, bloodstream infections and bone and joint infections) and streptococcus (which causes strep throat, scarlet fever, impetigo and toxic shock syndrome), which are the most dangerous. In short, as the World Health Organization (WHO) puts it, cockroaches should be considered as disease carriers.
Cockroaches can cause respiratory problems
When found in a household environment, cockroaches not only pose a threat to human health because they can contaminate food, but also because of the respiratory problems they may cause.
Cockroaches pose increased health risks to asthmatics, especially children and the elderly. Their presence can trigger potentially dangerous reactions, such as bronchial spasms and inflammation of the airways.
In addition to being one of the bacteria carried by cockroaches, staphylococcus aureus can cause serious respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
Cockroaches can trigger allergic reactions
In addition to contaminating food and causing respiratory problems, cockroaches can also be the trigger allergic reactions in many people. Allergens associated with cockroach infestations can cause skin problems such as redness, irritation and itching.
Cockroaches produce a protein that can cause an allergic reaction in many people. Their saliva, feces, scales and even dead bodies can all act as triggers, which makes it necessary to decontaminate after an infestation.
Don’t take any risks! If you see cockroaches in your home, contact Elite Pest Control
This article isn’t meant to cause panic for people with cockroach problems, but to inform them of the risks to human health associated with these insects.
At Elite Pest Control, we have extensive experience in pest control. In addition to effective treatment, our experts can provide you with valuable advice to prevent the risks associated with cockroaches. Don’t hesitate to contact our team as soon as you come across a cockroach!
