Can Cockroaches Bite Us?
WouterIf you’ve ever seen a cockroach on a ship, you might be wondering, “Can cockroaches bite us?” Fortunately, this isn’t very common. Most insects that can bite humans are blood feeders, such as mosquitoes, fleas, kissing bugs, sucking lice, and bedbugs. These insects use piercing mouthparts to feed on your blood, but cockroaches don’t feed this way.
Although cockroach bites are not typically serious, they can lead to allergic reactions and secondary infections. For this reason, it’s imperative to consult a physician if you develop a serious reaction to a cockroach bite. People who are asthmatic or have other underlying health conditions are at the highest risk for severe allergic reactions. Additionally, children and the elderly should not be exposed to cockroaches if they are allergic.
Cockroaches are nocturnal insects, so they tend to stay out of view during the day. Because they prefer to feed on other sources of food, they are not likely to bite humans unless an infestation is large enough. Normally, cockroach bites last a few days or a week, but in extreme cases, the bite may last much longer.
If a cockroach bite occurs, the victim will experience a sharp, itchy sting, similar to those caused by mosquito bites. The stinging sensation usually lasts only a few seconds, but you should be cautious and consult a doctor. In some cases, a cockroach bite may become infected and cause significant pain.
