Killing every cockroach at The Moor Market in Sheffield is possible, expert says
“Normal use of the property can resume pretty quickly after treatment”
Killing every cockroach at The Moor Market is possible, a pest control expert has said.
Paul Blackhurst, head of technical academy, Rentokil Pest Control, said severe infestations could take several visits from pest control experts to ensure cockroaches are “fully eradicated and don’t return.”
But after that business could resume quickly.
The Moor Market in Sheffield city centre has been closed for nearly two weeks due to reported German cockroaches. The venue has more than 50 traders and 12 cafes.
On Monday council chief said days of deep cleaning had cut the numbers of pests but there was still some “limited activity” and it would remain closed “as long as necessary.”
Mr Blackhurst told The Star cockroaches spread diseases and are hard to kill - but getting rid of them all is possible.
He said: “Finding a cockroach infestation in a business setting can be very distressing and should always be taken extremely seriously.
“These highly resilient pests are known carriers of diseases and illnesses that pose significant health risks, such as salmonella, dysentery and gastroenteritis.
“Their droppings have also been linked to allergic reactions, eczema and asthma. Cockroaches also breed so rapidly that, once an infestation is established, they can quickly spread to neighbouring properties.
“However, with professional treatment and monitoring, cockroach infestations can be managed effectively. A quick response is essential to controlling the infestation and preventing a much larger problem.
“Expert intervention is always required, as these tough insects need specialist products and solutions powerful enough to eliminate all stages of their lifecycle.
“Severe infestations can take several visits from pest control experts to ensure cockroaches are fully eradicated and don’t return.
“But normal use of the property can resume pretty quickly after treatment - the key thing is to follow the advice of the pest control team to ensure the cockroaches don't return.
“Preventative measures such as good hygiene, prompt cleaning and removing standing water are key proactive steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of an infestation starting in the first place.
“If you’re worried about an infestation, signs to look out for include droppings, smear marks, shedded skins, eggs and damage such as chewed packaging. Cockroaches are drawn to warmth, moisture and food residue, and are most often spotted in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, drains, roof voids and damp basements.”
Rentokil Initial plc is a British business founded in 1925. It is a member of the FTSE 100 index of companies listed on the London Stock Exchange.