Are Stink Bugs Dangerous to Humans or Pets?

Are Stink Bugs Dangerous?

Let's first define poisonous since it is important to understand what this means in relationship to stink bugs.

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines poisonous as a toxic substance that causes injury or death when absorbed or ingested. Stink bugs meet the definition of being poisonous but nowhere near the extent of numerous venomous reptiles or spiders that inject their venom.

On rare occasions, stink bugs may cause allergies and dermatological symptoms when someone is highly allergic to the fluid they produce when defending themselves. While uncommon, symptoms such as runny nose, tearing, itchy eyes, and skin irritation leading to dermatitis may occur.

Whenever someone is exposed to a stink bug's defensive compound, it is wise to quickly use soap and water to wash the affected skin and remove the source of the ill-smelling substance.

Removing Stink Bugs

If you need to remove stink bugs, do not smash them. Use plastic gloves or some other form of hand protection and brush them into a disposable container or grocery bag and throw them away.

Be sure to avoid contact with the skin when disposing of them.