Can a Cockroach Hurt You?
WouterIt’s very possible to get bitten by a cockroach, but it’s not always obvious. Cockroach bites are generally harmless, although the pain they can cause can be unpleasant. However, some cockroaches can cause serious health problems. These creatures are omnivores, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. In forests, cockroaches are common, and they will sometimes be found near where people sleep.
In addition to spreading disease, cockroaches carry allergens that can cause serious allergies. Cockroaches have the ability to infect people with MRSA, a bacterium that can lead to serious health problems. These insects also produce allergens that can cause asthma and anaphylactic shock in sensitive individuals.
Cockroach bites are painful, causing swelling and irritation. The irritation can last for several days. However, cockroach bites are similar to those caused by other insects. While this can make it difficult to tell which insect has bitten you, there are physical signs that can help you identify the source of the irritation. Cockroach bites are usually red and have a diameter of one to four millimeters.
Cockroaches can also carry dangerous bacteria, including E. coli O157-H7. Those bacteria can survive in the cockroach’s gut for up to two months and can spread to humans. These bacteria are also spread through cockroach faeces.
