American Cockroach • Periplaneta americana
Animal
Conditions: Allergic rhinitis; allergic asthma; allergic conjunctivitis; allergic dermatitis.
Symptoms: Itchy, stuffy, or runny nose; post-nasal drip; sneezing; itchy, red or watery eyes; asthmatic symptoms; puffy eyes; rashes.
Physical description: Large; up to 2 inches in length; reddish-brown or mahogany, with a band around the shield of its head that may be tan or light yellow in color; has wings but seldom flies.
Environmental factors: Found in houses and large commercial buildings; prefers basements and other damp areas such as pipes, sewage systems, steam tunnels, and drainage systems; prefers warmer temperatures compared to the German cockroach.
Cross-reactivity: Extensive cross-reactivity among different individual species can occur.
References
- “American.” Merriam-Webster. Accessed Feb 20, 2020. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/American
- “Cockroach.” Merriam-Webster. Accessed Feb 20, 2020. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cockroach
Did You Know?
Cockroaches are incredible survivors. An adult can live 1 month without water, 2 or 3 months without food, and can easily survive outdoor freezing temperatures.