Cockroach-borne human parasites of public health concern: A synoptic account of the literature

Abstract

Cockroaches are insects of antiquity with great medical, veterinary and public health importance. The history of cockroaches are reportedly traceable to the tropical countries. However, many species of the insect eventually became cosmopolitan; a phenomenon that resulted from international trade and commerce. Cockroaches invade homes and induce psychological stress, contaminate food and mechanically transport and transmit pathogens. An extensive review of publications made over the years on cockroach-borne human parasites of public health concern was made from journal research articles and textbooks. Most of the publications were synthesized and presented in tabular forms. The findings indicated that many protozoan and helminth parasites that infect humans and domestic animals are borne by many cockroach species. This finding raises alarm on threat to public health by the synanthropic Periplaneta spcecies. Personal hygiene, adequate housekeeping, environmental cleanliness, source reduction and application of IPM are advocated.