Priscilla Sarfoah Osei

The Effects of Cockroaches on Household Health: A Community Service Report. 

( MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY) KUMASI TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY. 

On Sunday, 8th October 2023, I embarked on an educative community service in my community, Adweeho in Asante Mampong. I targeted Sunday because it is the resting day of most people since farming is their source of income. Cockroaches have one way or the other become a normal part of living in many homes in my community(Adweeho), because people are ignorant about their effects on our health. It was conducted to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of household pests, with a specific focus on cockroaches, on our health.  I told them that because of the flat bodies, long antennae of Cockroaches, they have the ability to adapt to various environments. I brought to their knowledge that, cockroaches mostly live in dark places and cracks in walls and they are often considered pests as they can infest homes and carry diseases. I made the awareness that cockroaches do not have positive effect on our health and should not be welcome into our homes. I stated that cockroaches are known to carry and spread bacteria, pathogens, and allergens. And with explanation, I gave details on how they act to affect us negatively, that when cockroaches come into contact with food, utensils, or surfaces, they can contaminate them with their saliva, faeces, and shed skin. This can lead to food poisoning, diarrhoea, allergies, and respiratory issues, especially in individuals who are sensitive or have pre-existing conditions. Additionally, cockroach droppings and body parts can trigger asthma attacks in some people.

During this educative program, I educated them on some preventive measures which emphasized to combat cockroach infestations and minimize health risks:

1. They should maintain cleanliness and Home hygiene.    

    - Regularly clean and sanitize your living spaces, paying special attention to areas where cockroaches are commonly found,        such as kitchens and bathrooms.    

    - Properly dispose of garbage and food waste.  

2. They should Seal Entry Points:    

    - Identify and seal any cracks, gaps, or openings in walls, floors, and windows to prevent cockroaches from entering your            home.

I concluded by stating that, because of our health, cockroaches should not stay with us and they should be treated as enemies. In all, the educative community service on the effects of household pests, particularly cockroaches, on our health highlighted the importance of taking preventive measures to combat infestations. Cockroaches can contaminate food, spread diseases, and trigger asthma attacks. By maintaining cleanliness and sealing entry points, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with cockroach infestations and promote a healthier living environment for ourselves and our communities.