First molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus in cockroaches

Abstract

Coronavirus is one of the main pathogens that primarily targets the human respiratory system. There are several ways to transmit this virus, such as direct contact or droplets spread by coughing or sneezing, and direct contact with fomites and surfaces is another way. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shiraz, southern Iran, in 2021. 5 locations, including 3 hospitals and 2 dormitories, were selected for the survey. The cockroaches were collected from selected locations and transferred to the Laboratory of Medical Entomology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. All specimens were identified morphologically. The external and gastrointestinal washouts of collected samples with sterile phosphate-buffered saline separately were used for molecular analysis. An RT-qPCR assay, which suggests the possible insect‑borne transmission, was used. External and gastrointestinal washout of B. germanica from Dastgheyb Dormitory and P. americana from Ali-Asghar Hospital were positive for contamination with the SARS-CoV-2. Cockroaches spread the virus in the environment and contaminate human food and various surfaces of buildings. Their role will be more important in crowded places such as hotels, lodging houses, restaurants, and hospitals; vector control programs should be carried out with more accuracy in such places.

Microbiome of laboratory‐reared and environmentally collected cockroaches

“…Concerns regarding the hygiene of cockroaches have been a topic of discussion for years, particularly in relation to issues such as food poisoning and contamination (Leibovitz 1951; Rueger & Olson 1969). Recent advancements in omics technology and molecular diagnostics have allowed researchers to identify pathogenic bacteria (including multidrug‐resistant bacteria) and viruses (SARS‐CoV‐2) in cockroaches (Kalantari et al 2023; Luckyjane Molewa et al 2022). Cockroaches can spread these bacteria and viruses by roaming around food and over surfaces, posing a major health risk to humans.…”

“…The gut microbiome of this omnivorous insect participates in food digestion, protects against pathogens, and contributes positively to host physiology by providing vitamins and amino acids. However, harmful microbes, such as fungi, pathogenic bacteria and viruses, can be spread to humans through cockroach feces (Crawford et al 2015; Kalantari et al 2023; Pérez‐Cobas et al 2015). Cockroaches are considered reservoirs of pathogens because of the intestinal accumulation of these microbes.…”