HEALTH: “Don’t crush cockroaches” - WHO

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HEALTH:  “Don’t crush cockroaches” - WHO

Posted 26/07/2023

In case you find any, you must take  precautions and use the correct methods to eliminate them, such as avoiding crushing them , since the World Health Organization (WHO) makes several specifications about that.

Before stepping on them, it should be considered that these insects have adapted to the change of the world for centuries, making it possible for them to survive even without a head.

These insects are considered almost immortal, since they can withstand very serious injuries, as well as survive without food for months, due to this, the WHO says to avoid health problems it is better not to crush them, since the bacteria of these insects can be spread in the environment causing asthma and allergies if inhaled.

Salmonella, staphylococci, and streptococci are some of the bacteria that these insects can spread, along with intestinal diseases such as dysentery, diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever .

In the worst case, if these microorganisms infect any food that is ingested afterwards, they could cause serious infections.

So the most effective way to eradicate these pests is to seek the help of a professional to carry out proper fumigation. Even if you've only seen one, there are probably many more hiding in various corners of the home.

Recommendations
Use “an insecticidal spray or trap” to prevent possible disease transmission.

Clean the floor regularly, especially in areas where food is present, such as the kitchen and dining room .

Make sure that you store all food with an airtight seal to prevent them from giving off odors which may attract them

Throw out the garbage bag very regularly, do not wait until it is completely full.

Seal any cracks or holes in the wall where they could enter with caulk or cement.

Spread aromatic plants such as lavender, basil or bay leaf in your kitchen. Cockroaches repudiate that smell.

Curious facts
Cockroaches have the ability to hold their breath for approximately 45 minutes and stay still.

When it dies, it can be eaten by its peers, that is, you could attract more cockroaches without realizing it.

Cockroaches have the great capacity to support around 600 times their body weight, meaning if you step on a cockroach, you will most likely not kill it.

About 99% of the time when you see a cockroach upside down doesn't mean it's dead.

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/health-dont-crush-cockroaches-who