Cockroaches are a public health nuisance; therefore, there is very little we can do as a Department of Health. We can require the owner of the property to professionally exterminate cockroaches; however, we cannot require the cockroaches to be eradicated, just attempt to exterminate the residence.
Cockroaches have become well adapted to living with and near humans, and their hardiness is legendary. In light of these facts, cockroach control may become a homeowner’s most difficult task because of the time and special knowledge it often involves. The cockroach is considered an allergen source and an asthma trigger for residents, although little evidence exists to link the cockroach to specific disease outbreaks.
Note that most cockroaches produce a repulsive odor that can be detected in infested areas. The sight of cockroaches can cause considerable psychological or emotional distress in some individuals. They do not bite, but they do have heavy leg spines that may scratch.