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Introduction

There are many different types of cockroach, and approximately 30 species are associated with human habitation. Once they have entered a building and conditions are to their liking, an infestation of cockroaches will establish itself quickly (they prefer humid and warm areas such as kitchens and bathrooms).

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Health significance

Cockroaches foul their environment with droppings, castings and regurgitated food. They have a characteristic unpleasant smell and the air around them may contain fragments of faeces and exoskeletons.

Cockroaches are a source of allergens which can lead to allergic illnesses such as dermatitis, rhinitis, bronchitis and asthma. They damage and contaminate food products and other items, such as those made of paper, and can transmit pathogenic organisms such as salmonella, E.coli, staphylococcus and shigella, which can cause dysentery and gastroenteritis.

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Control

It is better to prevent cockroach infestation in the first place but if you do have an infestation, it should be be treated by a professional pest control company or contact us as they can be difficult to eradicate by the householder.

To avoid an infestation, cockroaches must be deprived of food, water and shelter:

• Wash up promptly and food should be stored in sealed containers
• Keep surfaces clean and clear of debris
• Keep rubbish in lidded containers and carefully seal when disposed of
• Repair any leaking pipes and remove moisture or water sources
• Remove clutter where cockroaches might live and repair any holes and cracks in the structure of the building
• Remove loose paint and wallpaper

Cockroaches are nocturnal and live in large groups, so a householder may be unaware of an infestation. If one cockroach is seen, it is almost certain there will be many more.

When cockroaches infest a building containing more than one dwelling, the whole building must be treated to be effective.

Hastings Borough Council provides a pest control service for the treatment of premises infested with cockroaches.

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