Are Cockroaches Dangerous? What To Know

Cockroach infestations are a filthy nuisance and generally difficult to live with. You may commonly encounter cockroaches in your kitchen and bathrooms after they enter your home searching for food and water.

The uncertainty of whether cockroaches are dangerous or not can make this disgusting pest much more threatening. Keep reading to learn more about the real cockroach danger.

Common Questions on the Dangers of Cockroaches

You have just reasons to be concerned about the dangers of roaches. These tenacious creatures are among the most common pests invading commercial and residential buildings. They can come back despite your best efforts to eliminate them, as some have developed a resistance to some insect repellents and home remedies. 

Below are FAQs that should answer many questions, but the most accurate advice will come from a consultation with top pest exterminators.

Do Cockroaches Carry Disease?

Cockroaches crawl freely from unsanitary conditions to clean surfaces. They carry and transfer pathogens such as salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus on their legs and bodies.

Cockroaches can deposit these bacteria on food or kitchen surfaces. Ingestion of contaminated food or contact with contaminated surfaces can lead to severe illnesses such as food poisoning.

You must maintain high kitchen hygiene standards to avoid a cockroach infestation. You can protect yourself by emptying garbage bins regularly, cleaning dishes immediately after use, and storing food in airtight containers.

Will Cockroaches Hurt People?

Unlike many insects, cockroaches typically do not bite humans and cannot sting. Cockroaches are omnivores, feeding on plant and animal material. This includes meat, starch, paper, fabrics, and decaying matter. 

Cockroaches will not hurt you while they have abundant food sources, but large infestations deplete food supplies quickly. In such situations, cockroaches can bite you and feed on other cockroaches. Some species can even consume their fecal matter. 

Roaches may scratch you with the spines on their legs and body, causing skin discomfort. When a scratch or bite comes into contact with bacteria on their legs, it may cause infection. It’s best to be aware of these potential dangers and avoid physical contact with a cockroach.

Do Cockroaches Cause Asthma?

Cockroaches do not necessarily cause asthma, but they hide in dark, warm, and dirty places. As a result, they carry dust and dirt and stir up pollutants wherever they go. For individuals who already have asthma, this can trigger an attack.

Exposure to cockroach allergens may also lead to asthma attacks. To control the spread of pollutants, you can vacuum clean regularly or replace carpets with other types of floors. You can also consider cleaning furnishings and clothing regularly.

Can You Have a Cockroach Allergy?

Yes, it is possible to be allergic to cockroaches. They are among the most common sources of indoor allergens globally. Cockroach allergies threaten everyone, but children are more vulnerable than adults. People in urban areas risk acquiring cockroach allergies due to large infestations in urban homes. 

The droppings, saliva, and bodies of cockroaches contain allergen proteins that trigger allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the common symptoms of cockroach allergy include:

• Itchy skin or skin rash
• Scratchy throat
• Stuffy nose
• Itchy eyes and nose

To avoid or manage a cockroach allergy, avoid contact with cockroaches.

Do Different Cockroaches Carry Different Diseases?

No, not all cockroaches are a threat to a person’s health. There are thousands of species of cockroaches, but only 50 have adapted to live in human habitations. The most common types of roaches in households include the following:

• American cockroach
• Oriental cockroach
• Brown-banded cockroach
• German cockroach

Because all cockroaches feed on almost everything and live in unsanitary conditions, they are vectors for many human diseases. The main health risks of a cockroach infestation are proven to be allergic asthma and food contamination.

Are Cockroaches Dangerous? The Bottom Line

Cockroaches are dangerous, as they threaten your entire house or property. A cockroach infestation is gross, embarrassing, and difficult to control. To minimize the occurrence of a reinfestation, you should maintain high standards of hygiene and seek professional help.

If you are struggling with a cockroach infestation, Budget Brothers Termite & Pest is here to rescue you. We will conduct a full inspection of your property to identify the species of the cockroaches and the degree of infestation. Our team will recommend the best extermination service depending on your budget and the severity of the infestation. Contact us today for professional cockroach extermination services.