In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Ed Vargo discuss all things cockroach, from the number of species, their lifespan and reproduction, as well as the relationship between cockroaches and humans.  Cockroaches don’t bite, but they can still transmit disease.  Because they spend time in sewers, many microorganisms, some pathogenic, are on their legs and bodies and can be transferred to food in the kitchen.   Dr. Vargo also discusses the ways in which cockroach traps and repellents do (or don’t) work and what we can do to minimize the risk of the allergens of cockroaches (especially harmful for those with asthma) in our daily lives. 

 Key Takeaways:

• The Antarctic research station may be the only place without roaches. Where people go, we tend to bring cockroaches with us. 
• Cockroaches can infest any house. If your house is tidy, you’re more likely to notice them and be able to stop them earlier.
• Boric acid is a non-toxic, effective insecticide. As long as it stays dry, cockroaches will walk on it, groom themselves, and ingest it where it acts as a poison. 

 

"Studies show that if you can control the cockroaches effectively, then you can eliminate the detectable levels of allergens fairly quickly, even without cleaning." —  Dr. Ed Vargo

 

Connect with Dr. Ed Vargo:

Texas A&M University: Urban and Structural Entomology Program at Texas A&M University

 

Connect with Therese:

Website:   www.criticallyspeaking.net

Twitter: @CritiSpeak

Email: [email protected]

 

 

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