Cockroach Allergens

Two most common indoor species of cockroach in North America are:
- German cockroach (Blatella germanica)
- American cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

• Important source of allergens worldwide.

• Asthmatics and non-asthmatic individuals are at risk for cockroach allergen exposure and sensitization.

• Infants exposed to cockroach allergens are more likely to wheeze during infancy.

• Suggestive evidence of an association between cockroach allergen exposure and development of asthma in preschool children.

• Cockroach allergens are commonly found distributed in schools

• Cockroach allergens are found throughout homes, including beds, furniture, and carpets - highest levels are typically found in kitchen, although exposure is more likely in the bedroom because the allergens are aerosolized when getting into bed