Do Cockroaches Pose Health Risks?
Many people are repulsed by the mere mention of the word “cockroach.” Cockroaches are regarded as a surefire indication of filth and griminess due to their shameless bottom-feeding habits and general ickiness. We can’t exactly deny that cockroaches are disgusting, but just because they’re gross doesn’t mean they’re necessarily harmful to humans, right?. Do cockroaches actually pose any real health risks to us?
Yes. Yes they do.
Cockroaches are a significant cause for concern because of the diseases they might carry, as well as their potential for triggering allergies and asthma. Below, we’ve articulated a few of the ways cockroaches can pose a threat to human health.
Cockroaches Spread Pathogens Carrying E. Coli And Salmonella
Cockroaches can contaminate food or spread pathogens to surfaces through bodily contact. Cockroaches have been known to carry over 30 diseases that cause severe health risks to humans, including E. coli and Salmonella. These diseases are usually accompanied by abdominal pain, severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. It’s not uncommon for patients with E. coli and Salmonella to require hospitalization. In rare instances, the bacteria may infect the bloodstream, which can be fatal.
Cockroaches Can Trigger Asthma And Allergies
Asthma and allergies can be triggered by the saliva and droppings of cockroaches, as well as by their decaying carcasses. Much like dust mites, these allergens will affect humans when they are stirred up into the air (for example when sweeping or vacuuming) and enter their lungs. According to the National Pest Management Association, approximately 63 percent of homes in the United States contain cockroach allergens. Urban areas seem to be affected at higher rates than rural areas, with anywhere from 78 to 98 percent of homes containing cockroach allergens. Typical allergy symptoms include trouble breathing, coughing, skin rash, or even ear and sinus infections.
Furthermore, some researchers believe that prolonged exposure to cockroach allergens can cause individuals to become “sensitized” to the allergens. In other words, their risk of suffering a severe reaction increases proportionally to the duration they spend in cockroach infested areas. This issue is especially pressing for children and elderly persons.
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