Are Cockroaches Dangerous to Humans?

The longer cockroaches are present, the higher the risk of you or your family members developing health complications as a result.

Cockroaches are common insects found all over the world. Seeing them in your home is not necessarily a reason to panic. It’s not a sign that your home is dirty. Roaches are opportunistic; they can find food and water almost anywhere.


However, roaches can become a dangerous problem when they develop into an infestation. The longer cockroaches are present, the higher the risk of you or your family members developing health complications as a result. Contact Titan Pest & Wildlife Solutions if you suspect that you have a roach infestation.

Are Roaches Dangerous to Humans?

The simple answer is yes; roaches can be dangerous to humans. Cockroaches are considered to be an asthma trigger and an allergen source. They also often carry bacteria that can cause illnesses if left on consumed food.

Consider some of the health dangers that a roach infestation presents to humans:

  • They spread disease and bacteria – Cockroaches carry and spread several diseases, bacteria, pathogens, and germs. As they travel throughout a home or commercial property, they leave feces, urine, and regurgitated saliva containing harmful agents that can be transmitted to humans. These agents can cause salmonella, E. coli, urinary tract infections, typhoid, sepsis, and digestive problems. These diseases can be life-threatening for the very young, very old, or those who have a compromised immune system or severe illness.
  • Roaches contaminate food and surfaces – Roaches are attracted to food. However, almost anything is a food source to a cockroach. They eat human food, plants, paper, leather, and many other things. While eating or scurrying across a surface such as a countertop, they leave a trail of dead skin, feces, and empty eggshells. This means that almost anything in your home or business may be contaminated due to a roach infestation.
  • Roaches cause allergies – Cockroaches are one of the most common sources of indoor allergens. Many people have allergic reactions to feces, saliva, eggs, or shedding body parts. Children and the elderly are more susceptible to roach allergens.
  • Roaches aggravate respiratory problems – Roaches continually secrete saliva containing hundreds of allergens. The bacteria from their feces and urine can create airborne allergens that irritate respiratory issues. If a person already has asthma, roach allergens can be hazardous as they can cause severe complications with asthma.

Cockroach Exterminator – St. Louis City & New York

Roaches multiply rapidly, spread disease, and cause distress and annoyance for people across the country. Cockroaches are tough and need tough treatment. Roach extermination requires a comprehensive approach tailored to individual situations.

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