Cockroach Allergens Continue To Be a Major Trigger of Asthma, Especially in Children

While cockroaches may be known as one of most prevalent household pests - a projected $1 billion dollars is spent each year on professional management services - it has now become one of the most serious. According to recent medical studies and groups like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the allergens that cockroaches attract have the potential to increase asthma attacks, especially for children. The research also found that cockroach allergens are one of the leading causes of absenteeism in schools.

Cockroach allergens collect in the form of droppings, secretions, cast skins and the dead bodies of roaches. In addition to the allergens, cockroaches can spread at least 33 different types of bacteria, at least seven types of human pathogens and six kinds of parasitic worms. Cockroaches pick up these germs on their spine and body as they crawl through decaying matter or sewage.

Although this problem is most often associated with urban environments and multi-family housing, its important for all homeowners to take preventative steps to protect their families from these serious allergens. The experts at Arrow Exterminators propose several tips to help you avoid cockroach infestations:

• Vacuum often to avoid the collection of cockroach droppings and carcasses. This will prevent allergens from collecting.
• Seal cracks quickly to reduce or eliminate a cockroach population.
• Good sanitation is important, including keeping garbage in a sealed container and disposing of it regularly to avoid attracting cockroaches.

With these few tips, you can help protect your family, and most importantly your children's health.