What diseases are caused by cockroaches?
Mia Lopez
Updated on February 21, 2026
Cockroaches can transmit the following diseases:
- Salmonellosis.
- Typhoid Fever.
- Cholera.
- Dysentery.
- Leprosy.
- Plague.
- Campylobacteriosis.
- Listeriosis.
Can you get sick from roaches in your house?
Thus, it should come as no surprise that cockroaches can spread harmful bacteria and diseases. In fact, the most common disease spread by cockroaches is gastroenteritis, an intestinal infection that causes diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. However, cockroaches often carry other diseases, including: Salmonella.What health problems can cockroaches cause?
According to the World Health organization (WHO), cockroaches have been known to play a role as carriers of intestinal diseases, such as dysentery, diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever.Can cockroaches carry viruses?
It is believed that the cockroach may be a reservoir for a range of bacteria including salmonella, staphylococcus and streptococcus. The cockroach can also harbour viruses such as the polio virus.Is cockroach poop poisonous?
Cockroaches have many negative consequences for human health because certain proteins (called allergens) found in cockroach feces, saliva and body parts can cause allergic reactions or trigger asthma symptoms, especially in children.Dangers Of Cockroach Disease Transmission
What happens if a cockroach bites you?
Cockroach bites typically show up as small, red, raised bumps on the skin. In some cases, individuals can suffer from a severe allergic reaction to a cockroach bite. This can result in localized swelling, skin rash, shortness of breath, and even anaphylaxis.Is it safe to live with roaches?
According to the World Health Organization, cockroaches are known or suspected carriers of the microorganisms that can cause diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, leprosy, plague, typhoid fever and viral diseases, such as poliomyelitis.Is cockroach pee poisonous?
Just like with their droppings, cockroaches will urinate anywhere, and their urine also contains harmful diseases. If you have a large infestation on your hands then there might be a chance that a lot of items might be contaminated with cockroach urine in your property.Can cockroach bites make you sick?
Cockroach Bites Can Cause Allergic ReactionsThe bites from the pest may not be dangerous, but the allergens they carry are the problem. It can cause skin reactions, which may also trigger asthma attacks. When you are bitten, it can swell and might have a rash, which can last for days.