Think twice before squashing a roach – here’s why

MOST people would agree that cockroaches are one of the most disgusting creepy crawlies out there, and our first reaction is to squash the critters by stepping on them.

However, we should not squash, smash or even use the old shoe technique to kill them – here’s why.

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Scientists and health experts agree that when you see a cockroach in your home, the last resort should be to squash it. This, they warn, may produce dire health risks to humans.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said, once roaches are crushed they produce a potent harmful bacteria that can take a toll on humans, potentially causing asthma attacks and heavy allergies when inhaled.

Roaches also carry diseases, including salmonella, streptococci, and staphylococci that they pass on to humans when they are squashed.

These bacteria can lodge in the intestine and cause diarrhea, cholera and typhoid fever.

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