NorwichBulletin reports that the presence of cockroaches in schools and homes is a contributing factor in the rise of asthma and other respiratory ailments.

Entomologist Jennifer Dacey says that cockroach shells, dropped after molting, along with the insect's feces, dissipate into the air and become respiratory irritants.

Allergy Nurse Terry Gardner says cockroach allergies are predominant in the southern states but can occur in any urban area. Gardner says few people are allergic to cockroach allergen alone, but many are affected by it when it's combined with other allergens like dust and mold.

"Cockroaches are highly allergenic, and we do see some positive tests," Gardner says. "But symptoms vary from person to person."

The most common symptoms are difficulty breathing and throat irritation.

Public Health Nurse Eileen Boulay says the main problem with cockroach allergen is its role as an asthma trigger.

"Cockroaches are a big allergen. But, since asthma is not a reportable condition, there's no way of tracking how many individuals are affected through cockroach exposure," Boulay says.

Some people are also reluctant to talk about problems caused by roaches.

Public Health Director Patricia Beckenhaupt suggests using HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners amd cleaning all food from household surfaces to cut down on cockroach allergen exposure.

See the Cockroack Allergy FAQ for more information.