Because of their natural instinct to chew on anything in their path, rodents can cause a great deal of damage to residential properties. However, the destructive nature of rodents extends beyond cosmetic damages as they are also known carriers of a variety of infectious diseases.
Common Rodent-Transmitted Diseases
Rodents such as rat, mice, squirrels, and raccoons are not only threats to property but also people. Should any rodents find their way into your home, you and your family could be exposed to some of the following diseases.
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Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Rodents infected with this severe respiratory disease can transmit it to humans through bites, direct contact, and soiled air. This virus causes symptoms such as fever, nausea, rash, and dry cough in humans.
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Hemorrhagic Fever and Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
Spread through airborne contact, bites, and exposure to rodent droppings, HFRS can also spread from human to human–although it’s extremely rare. Symptoms of HFRS include fever, chills, abdominal pain, and blurred vision.
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Leptospirosis
Common in rodents such as rats and raccoons, this bacterial disease is often misdiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms including fever, headache, vomiting, and jaundice. It is transmitted to humans through water or soil that is contaminated by infected animal urine and unsanitary rodent feces.
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Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis
This virus, which attacks the human neurological system, is commonly transmitted through the bites and infected waste of mice and rats. If left untreated, the disease can lead to meningitis, myelitis, myocarditis, and paralysis.
How to Avoid Common Rodent Diseases
The longer rodents spend inside your home, the more contamination they can spread. If you notice signs of rodents within your residence, you can reduce your risk of infection by:
- avoiding contact with their urine or droppings unless wearing protective gloves, masks, and eyewear
- not attempting to trap, catch, or otherwise touch any rodents that may be in your home
- immediately contacting a local rodent removal specialist at the first sign of a rodent infestation
Professional Rodent Removal
Homeowners should not live in fear of a rodent infestation when help is just a click or phone call away. At Critter Control® of Tampa, we are equipped with the tools and skills needed for safe rodent removal. Should you suspect the presence of rodents on your property, our expert technicians are ready to expertly decontaminate your home and permanently rid your space of rats. To get a free estimate or more information regarding our services, please call us today at 813-948-0870.