Cockroach-infested kitchens is reservoirs of infections - experts

Public health and food safety experts have revealed that homes infested with cockroaches, especially in the kitchen, serve as breeding grounds for infections and foodborne illnesses.

The specialists identified salmonellosis and typhoid fever as examples of foodborne diseases associated with cockroach infestations.

In addition to foodborne illnesses, they noted that cockroaches can provoke allergic reactions in individuals suffering from respiratory issues.

The World Health Organization indicates that unsafe food, which may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical agents, is responsible for over 200 diseases, including diarrhoea and various cancers.

Furthermore, it highlights that unsafe food perpetuates a cycle of disease and malnutrition, disproportionately impacting infants, young children, the elderly, and those who are ill.

According to the global health organization, children under five years old account for 40 percent of the burden of foodborne diseases, resulting in approximately 125,000 fatalities annually.

"Foodborne diseases hinder socioeconomic progress by placing a strain on healthcare systems and adversely affecting national economies, tourism, and trade.

"An estimated 600 million people—nearly one in ten globally—experience illness from consuming contaminated food, with 420,000 fatalities each year, leading to a loss of 33 million healthy life years.

"Foodborne illnesses are typically infectious or toxic, caused by the introduction of bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances into the body through contaminated food. Many of these diseases can result in long-term disability and death," stated the WHO.

In an exclusive interview with our correspondent, Dr. Mojirola Fasiku, a Consultant Public Health Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, emphasized that food and leftovers that are not properly covered can attract insects.

She highlighted that the health risks associated with cockroaches primarily stem from their ability to contaminate food and kitchen surfaces, potentially leading to infections or foodborne illnesses.

Dr. Fasiku elaborated that cockroaches transport microorganisms on their bodies as they traverse various environments, including toilets, feces, and other contaminated locations. These microorganisms can also be found in their droppings, saliva, or on their legs.

“Cockroaches can lead to foodborne diseases, and their molting can provoke allergies or asthma in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, particularly those who are allergic or asthmatic,” the consultant noted.

Furthermore, she stated, “They can play a role in food poisoning. When they come into contact with food, they may introduce harmful organisms. Some foodborne illnesses associated with cockroaches include salmonellosis and typhoid fever. However, it is important to note that cockroaches do not create diseases independently; they merely facilitate the transmission of these pathogens.”

Regarding the duration that bacteria from cockroach droppings or saliva can persist on kitchen surfaces, the public health physician remarked, “There is limited research on this topic, but some studies indicate that it varies based on the specific type of bacteria involved.”

Bacteria can remain viable in saliva or on the legs of insects, persisting on surfaces for a duration ranging from several hours to several days. The longevity of different bacterial species varies; some can survive for extended periods, while others may perish swiftly. Additionally, environmental factors such as temperature and humidity significantly influence bacterial survival, with moist conditions being particularly conducive to their proliferation.

The consultant emphasized the importance of preventive strategies for homeowners to mitigate the risk of cockroach infestations in kitchens and living spaces.

"Maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Homeowners should ensure that their kitchens are kept tidy by regularly wiping down surfaces and sweeping the floors. It is common for individuals to leave dustbins uncovered in the kitchen, which can attract cockroaches and lead to food contamination.

"Moreover, it is advisable not to leave dirty dishes overnight. Promptly washing dishes is vital, as kitchen surfaces can harbor harmful bacteria. Proper food storage practices are also critical; all food, whether cooked or raw, should be adequately covered, and perishable items must be stored in the refrigerator.

"Hand hygiene is another essential aspect. Even in the absence of visible cockroaches, surfaces may still be contaminated. Individuals often touch various surfaces and subsequently their eyes, nose, or food, which can result in contamination. Therefore, it is imperative to wash hands thoroughly before food preparation," the consultant stated.

A Professor of Food Science and Technology at Bells University of Technology in Ota, Ogun State, Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, has indicated that the consumption of contaminated food can result in a variety of foodborne illnesses, which may include jaundice, typhoid fever, cancer, and potentially fatal outcomes.

The food safety expert, who also serves as the President of the Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative, emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and sanitized cooking environment prior to food preparation.

“It poses significant risks to consume contaminated foods, as they can lead to a range of foodborne illnesses, including mild to severe diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, typhoid fever, cholera, dysentery, jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, cancer in chronic cases, and even death,” he stated.

He further remarked, “Food safety ensures that food does not pose a risk to consumers. It is essential to protect food from physical, chemical, and biological hazards, which include contaminants such as houseflies, cockroaches, pet hair, and rodent droppings.”