Can Cockroaches Cause Flu? Here’s What You Need To Know

In the past, various people have been diagnosed with a flu after coming into contact with cockroaches.

Do Cockroaches Carry the Flu?

A study conducted in 1971 by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that cockroaches may be capable of carrying the flu.

More recent tests have confirmed that cockroaches can contaminate food and cause food poisoning.

In addition, they are known carriers of salmonella, which can lead to typhoid fever. Cockroach feces also have a role in spreading asthma if someone inhales them.

What Happens if Someone is Bitten by a Cockroach with the Flu?

If someone is bitten by a cockroach with the flu, then the roach saliva can transmit the virus to the person. In addition, their feces can also transmit the virus.

What Should You do if you find out your house has Cockroaches?

If you find out that your house has cockroaches, take action to eliminate them. You can start by removing any food sources they might be accessing.

In addition, make sure that the kitchen is clean and clutter-free to make it more difficult for them to climb onto the countertops.

Finally, use an insecticide spray or fogger that should eliminate the problem quickly.

ALSO SEE: Can Cockroaches Cause Fever?

Can Cockroaches Cause Flu?

The study, which was published in the journal PLOS One, examined 120 households in four cities in the United States home to people with asthma.

Some of these families also had cockroaches.

Researchers found that among these 120 households, 43 percent had cockroach allergens in their homes. And among those with cockroach allergens, 46 percent had asthma.

Facts About Cockroach Bites

Cockroaches are infamously known for carrying bacteria that can’t be seen on the surface. One study found that some strains of bacteria can live on a cockroach’s antennae without harming them and these same strains were found on human fingertips after touching a cockroach.

The most common type of bacteria carried by cockroaches is salmonella, which causes food poisoning and diarrhea.

Cockroaches have been shown to carry many different types of bacteria including Salmonella, that can infect humans.

They also release allergens and cause alarm or anxiety in humans when they are nearby, which may lead some people to develop asthma or other breathing problems.

Other people might see them as creepy crawlers or think they’re just part of life, but it’s important to know how much these pests can impact your health before having them in your home.

When Do Cockroaches Bite?

A cockroach will bite when they are hungry and they feel threatened. They prefer to feed on sweets rather than meat, but if they are hungry enough then they will eat anything.

What Other Diseases Do They Spread?

There are many diseases that can be spread by cockroaches. The most common diseases are diarrhea, dysentery, and food poisoning.

Other common diseases include typhoid fever, cholera, and pneumonia. The bacteria on the roach’s feet can get onto unwashed hands and cause stomach problems.

How to Protect Yourself from a Bite

If you’re dealing with an infestation, make sure to isolate the area. Cockroaches often live near food and water sources, so make sure that these are handled properly.

If a household member has been bitten, it is important for them to get treatment as soon as possible.

This is because cockroach bites are known to carry diseases like salmonella and typhoid fever. If there’s already a case of this happening in the home or office, keep everyone away from the infected person while they recover.

Conclusion

A word of caution, though. Keep your distance and call an exterminator.