Assessment of Surface-Associated Bacterial Contamination in <em>Blatta orientalis </em>from Infested Pig Farms in Bulgaria

Cockroaches are widely recognized as significant vectors for various infectious and parasitic diseases affecting both animals and humans. Cockroaches are more than just common pests; they are among the most medically important insects due to their frequent presence in human habitats. These resilient creatures are major reservoirs and vectors for numerous pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Recognizing the role of cockroaches in the ecosystem of disease is crucial, and implementing effective control measures is necessary. This study focuses on identifying bacterial contaminants present on the surfaces of Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis) collected from pig farms. Using the Vitek 2 Compact system, a modern platform for rapid and automated phenotypic identification, several bacterial species were isolated. The predominant microorganism identified was E. coli, followed by Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., and Enterobacter spp. These findings highlight the potential role of cockroaches in the transmission of harmful infectious diseases to both animal populations and humans.