Cockroaches are a nuisance and can establish themselves wherever they find sources of food, water, and, most importantly, shelter. People’s homes are the biggest suppliers of these three components that a cockroach requires for their living. According to the National Pest Management Association, 70 to 98 percent of homes have cockroaches. 

It is even harder to get rid of cockroaches because they are nocturnal creatures and very good at hiding. If you see one lurking around in your home, chances are there are many more hidden under furniture, in the basement, behind old boxes, etc. Before an infestation takes over, call Pest Control services.

FAQs about the dangers of cockroaches 

  • Are cockroaches really dangerous?

Cockroaches are not safe to keep in the house because of various reasons. First of all, they are not sanitary. They come into your house looking for food and usually dig for it in the garbage bins. They also explore your kitchen and spread germs when they come in contact with the food items and utensils. Besides that, they also breed in the sewage. 

Therefore, while cockroaches are not poisonous, they can still pose harm to your and your family’s well-being.

  • Do cockroaches bite?

Usually, no. Cockroaches may bite humans in some cases, but it is very uncommon. Cockroaches do not target humans but their homes, where they find their food, water, and shelter sources. They only bite in certain situations, such as when there is a cockroach outbreak. This usually happens in urban areas. 

If a cockroach infestation in your home reaches the point when the available food cannot sustain the entire population’s needs, they may start biting humans. 

  • Can cockroaches hurt you?

While cockroach bites are rare, they can certainly cause mental anxiety. Many people have a fear or phobia of cockroaches. Moreover, the appearance of cockroaches in the house can make people feel self-conscious and avoid inviting guests. On the other hand, cockroaches do not produce poison and cannot sting people. 

  • Do cockroaches carry diseases?

Cockroaches carry germs, bacteria, and pathogens that can spread to humans and cause diseases. Some of the potential diseases these pests can cause include: 

  • Dysentery
  • Typhoid fever
  • Salmonella
  • E. Coli
  • And gastroenteritis

According to the WHO, pathogens can be spread when they come in contact with food sources in the kitchen and the utensils you use to eat your food. They can also spread through cockroach droppings and exoskeletons. Cockroaches are not picky eaters and will feast on whatever they can find. This is basically how they spread diseases.