Cockroaches, often dismissed as mere household pests have been said to pose significant threats to human health by spreading bacteria and contaminating food.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Cockroaches are considered a major health hazard as they are known to carry a variety of pathogens that can cause diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, leprosy, plague, typhoid fever and viral diseases such as poliomyelitis.”
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds that, “Cockroach allergens can cause allergic reactions or trigger asthma symptoms, especially in children,” highlighting their impact beyond food contamination.
Experts explain that cockroaches pick up germs from decaying matter and sewage on their legs and transfer them to food and surfaces. These germs include Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus, leading to infections like gastroenteritis and food poisoning.
In addition to physical illness, cockroach infestations often indicate poor hygiene and inadequate sanitation. The CDC states that “cockroach infestations are often linked to inadequate sanitation, improper food storage, or structural issues in homes and buildings.” The presence of these pests can also worsen mental well-being, contributing to stress and anxiety, particularly in crowded urban environments.
