Deadly visitors in your kitchen: we are feeding pests while starving ourselves

A senior health professional, Dr. Mojirola Fasiku, has warned Nigerians against allowing cockroaches take over their homes.

She said cockroaches are dangerous to human health and can cause serious infections, especially when they invade kitchen areas.

Dr. Fasiku is a Consultant Public Health Physician with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State.

She explained that cockroach-infested homes are silent carriers of infections and foodborne diseases.

The expert said dirty kitchens and poor hygiene habits create a breeding space for cockroaches.

She advised Nigerians to prioritise cleanliness and maintain proper hygiene to prevent cockroach infestations.

According to her, homes must be kept clean, especially the kitchen and food preparation areas.

“Kitchens must be swept and wiped daily to discourage cockroaches,” she said during an interview on social media.

She decried the habit of leaving kitchen dustbins open and uncovered.

“Leaving dustbins open in kitchens attracts cockroaches that later contaminate food,” she warned.

She also discouraged leaving dirty dishes overnight in the sink.

“Unwashed plates can attract pests. Dishes must be washed immediately after meals,” she noted.

She encouraged Nigerians to embrace safe and hygienic food storage practices.

“All food, whether cooked or raw, should be properly covered,” she said.

She added that perishable food items should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage and infestation.

The public health expert also spoke about how pet food attracts cockroaches if left out for too long.

She advised pet owners to avoid exposing pet food for extended hours.

She pointed out that leaking pipes are another cause of infestation in Nigerian homes.

“Repair any leaking pipe immediately. Cockroaches thrive in damp and moist environments,” she stated.

She urged Nigerians to eliminate all sources of standing water inside the house.

Dr. Fasiku also recommended sealing cracks and crevices where cockroaches hide.

“Seal wall cracks and edges where cockroaches usually stay and breed,” she advised.

She added that cabinets should be tightly closed after every use.

“Regular waste disposal is necessary. Dustbins must have tightly fitted covers,” she stressed.

She further urged Nigerians to take hand hygiene seriously.

“Cockroaches may not be seen, but surfaces can be contaminated,” she warned.

She noted that people often touch surfaces, then touch their face or food.

“This action spreads bacteria unknowingly. Washing hands before cooking or eating is a must,” she advised.

Dr. Fasiku also said that serious infestations should be handled by professionals.

“If infestation is beyond control, call pest control services immediately,” she recommended.

She encouraged Nigerians not to wait until infestation becomes dangerous before acting.

Always remember, your health is your wealth.

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