14.10.2025 12:14
Chest Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü stated that the brown cockroach, which has invaded the Eastern Black Sea region in recent years and has spread to Marmara, is not toxic to humans, but contact with the skin can cause allergic reactions. Özlü said, "The fluid from the cockroach can cause wounds. Bacteria can also be added to those wounds, leading to an infection."
Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü warned that the rapidly proliferating brown marmorated stink bug in the Eastern Black Sea region is not directly dangerous to human health, but caution is needed when in contact with the skin.
Prof. Dr. Özlü stated regarding exposure to the liquid and odor emitted by the brown marmorated stink bug, "The stink bug is actually not toxic to humans; but it is primarily an agricultural pest. It has started to appear very frequently in our region in recent years. It damages many products, especially hazelnuts. Of course, it can sometimes pose a risk to humans as well. There have been findings that it has harmed people who try to catch it, kill it, or throw it away. The reason for this is actually a liquid that the stink bug emits when it feels threatened. It emits a liquid that gives off a foul odor. It is called a stink bug because of this. This liquid can also cause irritation. It can cause irritation wherever it comes into contact directly with the skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. It can lead to wounds. It has also been shown to cause allergic reactions. It can lead to an allergic response," he said.
"DO NOT HAVE DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE STINK BUG" Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü emphasized that direct contact with the liquid that comes out when trying to eliminate the brown marmorated stink bug can lead to allergic reactions and irritations on the skin, stating, "Those exposed to the odor and liquid may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, post-nasal drip, redness, and watering of the eyes. Generally, the bug does not bite humans because it has a system based on sucking and is not biting or toxic; but it can cause allergic reactions and irritations. If such a stink bug has entered your home or workplace, do not try to hold it with your hands. You can use a vacuum cleaner, a cloth, or paper to remove it. But I advise you not to have direct contact, especially not to try to crush and kill it. Because the liquid that emerges at that moment can harm you. If the liquid emitted by the stink bug comes into direct contact with your skin, face, mouth, or nose, it can cause irritation and lead to wounds. Bacteria can also be added to those wounds, and an infection may occur. However, this is not a disease caused directly by the stink bug; it will be an infection that settles on the irritation," he said.
THE INVASION IS SPREADING FROM THE BLACK SEA TO MARMARA Known as the "bug that will bring about the end of the world," the brown marmorated stink bug has emerged again in different regions of Turkey after coming out of hibernation. Especially in Sakarya, Samsun, Trabzon, Giresun, and surrounding provinces, the bug that invades homes and agricultural areas has caused concern among both citizens and producers.
In recent weeks, the brown marmorated stink bug, which has spread from the Black Sea region to Marmara, is causing serious damage not only in homes but also in hazelnut, corn, and fruit orchards. Experts warn that this invasive species could spread throughout Turkey in a short time. Agricultural authorities are calling for coordinated efforts and asking citizens to report areas where the bug is seen to the relevant units.