Are cockroaches dangerous? Here's what makes them so harmful around the house.
Cockroaches are one of the most hated pests in the world. These insects, which can infest homes, are unsurprisingly despised by many.
Originating almost 300 million years ago, these pests can run up to three miles every hour and live without food for one month. While this may seem impressive, what it really means is they can spread bacteria throughout your house and can easily adapt, making them hard to get rid of.
With all of this in mind you may wonder are they dangerous? We have the answers for you.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Besides being pests, cockroaches can be dangerous because they carry diseases. Cockroaches can carry 30 species of bacteria and have also been suspected of carrying microorganisms, according to Terminix.
Microorganisms carried by roaches have been linked to dysentery, diarrhea, cholera, leprosy, typhoid fever, plague and viral diseases like polio.
Although cockroaches have not been linked to any outbreaks, these are pests you do not want running rampant in your home.
Cockroaches can also be dangerous for those suffering from asthma. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, cockroaches can cause asthma attacks because of eggs, feces, saliva, cuticles and outer covering left behind by them.
Left on surfaces these can contain substances people are allergic to which can be especially harmful to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. Cockroach saliva, feces and skin shedding can cause asthma in children, according to the EPA.
Additionally, cockroaches carry bacteria on the surface of their bodies that can cause streptococcus, salmonella and staphylococcus if left in food.
Can cockroaches hurt you?
While many people are understandably scared of cockroaches, these vermin are not poisonous, do not sting and are unlikely to bite you, according to Terminix. They can, however, scratch you with their legs.
What happens if a cockroach touches you?
Although they are unlikely to bite you, scratches left behind by cockroaches can become infected because of bacteria carried by these pests, Healthline says.
How can I prevent cockroaches?
According to the EPA, these are some steps you can take to manage cockroaches.
Don’t accumulate dirty dishes in your sink or let them sit overnight
Regularly remove garbage from your kitchen
Check your evaporation pan under your freezer or refrigerator every now and then
Check the area between your stove and cabinets where grease may build up
Keep food scraps and sealed containers or in the fridge
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Are cockroaches dangerous? Why they're harmful in your home.