With colder weather quickly descending upon us, rodents like mice and rats are going to start finding their way inside residential homes. Just because some homeowners may find them cuter than other typical house pests doesn’t mean they don’t pose some very significant health risks. In fact, rodents are not dangerous for their bite, sting, or poison, but rather for the over 35 diseases they are known to carry. Below, we expand upon some of the most common diseases associated with rodents.
Hantavirus
The Hantavirus is commonly carried by white-footed and deer mice, as well as the cotton and rice rat. Fortunately, it is relatively rare, but it is infamous for being very serious and unpredictable. Symptoms of Hantavirus include kidney, blood, and respiratory ailments, and it is most often transmitted to people when fibers of rodent waste (like urine or droppings) are stirred up and inhaled.
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)
The primary host of this dangerous disease is the common house mouse. It is estimated that roughly 5% of house mice in the United States carry LCM and can transmit it. Transmission occurs after exposure to fresh mouse waste, or when bitten by an infected mouse. These infections are more common in the winter, since more mice are seeking warmer habitats.
Plague
It is possible for rodents to transmit plague bacteria to humans via fleas. As such, it is possible to be at risk of plague even if you don’t make contact with rodents or their nests. When infected fleas seek sources of nourishment other than rodents, they may bite humans and transmit the disease. Fortunately, plague is treatable with commonly available antibiotics, but it is easy to see why it’s so important to call Daytona pest control right away if you have rodents.
Tularemia
This disease is often carried by rabbits, hares, and rodents, which means rats and mice can bring it into your household. Transmission can occur through tick and deer fly bites, skin contact, or inhalation of contaminated dusts. Naturally occurring infections have occurred throughout every state short of Hawaii, with symptoms that include high fevers.
Salmonella
Rodents love to scurry across kitchen counters, cabinets, and pantries. As they run, they carry dirt and bacteria with them. Any food that is left out, even items sealed in bags, is susceptible to contact with rodents and ingestion, which leads to salmonella transmission. Salmonella has symptoms similar to those of food poisoning.
For the reasons above, rodents are not entitled to living in your home. They may carry harmful diseases, and they also breed exponentially when left unchecked. That’s why we encourage all homeowners to take precautionary steps when it comes to household rodent infestations. If you suspect that your home has been perpetrated by rodents, reach out to your leading local pest control in Daytona Beach, FL – All Star Pest Control! We offer critter control Daytona Beach homeowners can trust to extinguish any infestation.