“American cockroaches are filthy pests, and their presence in the home can pose a severe health threat. Cockroaches have been reported to spread at least 33 kinds of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella, as well as six kinds of parasitic worms and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens. They pick up germs on the spines of their legs and body as they crawl through decaying matter or sewage, and then transfer the germs onto food or cooking surfaces. The saliva, urine and fecal droppings from American cockroaches contain allergen proteins known to elicit allergic reactions and asthma attacks. As such, cockroaches are a common trigger of year-round allergy and asthma symptoms, especially in children,” according to Pestworld.org, the official website of the National Pest Management Association.
American Cockroach
The largest of the house-infesting roaches is the American cockroach. It is also known as the palmetto bug, water bug and the Bombay canary.
CharacteristicsA cockroach has six legs and is oval-shaped. It has a long antenna. They are reddish brown with a yellowish figure 8 pattern on the back of their head. Adults range between ¼” to 2-1/8” in length. Cockroaches are nocturnal and tend to “sleep” (or inactive) during the day and start to become active at night to look for food, usually four hours after lights out.They live in moist areas like pipes, drains, sewers, and bathrooms. They pick up germs on the spines of their legs crawling across garbage, decaying matter and sewage. They transfer these germs onto foods and food surfaces.
Asthma and Allergies
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American reports that “a cockroach allergy is a common trigger of year-round allergy and asthma. If you are allergic to them, they can trigger asthma attacks. Studies show children who are allergic to cockroaches, and are exposed to them, need to go to the hospital for asthma more often than other children with asthma. Cockroaches contain a protein that is an allergen for many people. An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic immune reaction. The body parts, saliva and waste of cockroaches are allergens. Even dead cockroaches can cause allergic reactions.
Signs of Infestation
Pestworld.org states that “there are four telltale signs of an American cockroach infestation. First, homeowners will see the fast-moving insects themselves usually fleeing to dark areas. Second, American cockroaches leave behind droppings in the dim areas in which they hide. These small droppings are blunt on the ends and have ridges on the sides. They are often mistaken for mouse droppings, so it’s important to contact a licensed pest control professional for proper identification. Another sign of an American cockroach infestation is the presence of egg capsules, which are about 8 mm long and dark-colored. Egg capsules are sometimes glued to a surface near food sources, and can be found in basements, laundry rooms and kitchens, as well as behind appliances or underneath cabinets. Lastly, the American cockroach will produce a pheromone that some people describe as having a “musty” smell. People with sensitive noses may notice this odor around the house”.
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