Are silverfish dangerous to health?

Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) are not dangerous to human health. They do not bite, do not spread diseases and are not poisonous. Although they can be annoying, especially in homes where they are often found in damp areas such as bathrooms or kitchens, they do not pose a direct health risk.

Silverfish feed on starchy materials, such as paper, books, wallpaper paste, and fabrics (such as cotton or linen). While they generally do not cause major damage, they can cause long-term problems in libraries, wardrobes, or document storage areas.

While silverfish themselves do not cause allergies, their feces or scales can contribute to dust accumulation, which can cause irritation in sensitive people (such as those with asthma). However, this is rarely a major problem. Silverfish thrive in humid environments. Reducing the humidity in your home (such as with a dehumidifier) ​​can help discourage them.

Regular cleaning and vacuuming can help remove food sources. Silverfish often hide in small cracks or crevices, so sealing these openings can limit their access.

While silverfish can be annoying, they do not pose an immediate health risk to humans. However, their presence can indicate moisture problems in the home that need to be addressed.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18928684/

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024