Don’t Crush Cockroaches—Here’s Why

With the arrival of hot weather, one of the most unwelcome visitors in homes and businesses reappears: cockroaches. These insects, known for their survival skills and rapid reproduction, thrive in high temperatures, causing discomfort and even health risks. Many people’s immediate reaction upon encountering a cockroach is to crush it with a shoe, magazine, or any nearby object. However, health and entomology experts warn that this practice may be more harmful than it seems.

Could Crushing Cockroaches Be Harmful?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), crushing cockroaches is not recommended, as doing so can release dangerous bacteria such as salmonella and staphylococcus into the air or onto nearby surfaces. These microorganisms are responsible for intestinal diseases like dysentery and typhoid fever.

Additionally, fragments of the insect’s body, particularly its legs and exoskeletons, can cause or worsen respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies if accidentally inhaled. In sensitive individuals, this exposure can trigger severe reactions.

Specialists recommend avoiding direct contact with cockroaches and instead opting for safer control methods, such as traps, insecticidal gels, or professional fumigation services.