While rodents are undeniably a nuisance, the bigger concern is often the health risk they can pose to you and your family. It’s easy to dismiss mice and rats as simply “icky,” but these pests can carry and spread a variety of diseases. We believe that understanding these risks is the first step toward protecting your household.
1. Hantavirus
Overview: Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a severe respiratory disease primarily linked to deer mice in North America, though other rodents can also carry the virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPS has a mortality rate of around 38%—which underscores how serious it can be.
Transmission: People usually get Hantavirus by inhaling airborne particles of rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. This often occurs when someone disturbs rodent nesting materials or droppings, kicking up dust that carries the virus.
Symptoms: Early signs can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, progressing to coughing and shortness of breath. If you suspect Hantavirus exposure, seek medical attention immediately.
Prevention Tips: Avoid sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings. Instead, soak them with a disinfectant and use disposable towels to clean up. Always wear gloves and a mask if you’re dealing with areas known for rodent activity.
2. Salmonellosis
Overview: Salmonellosis is caused by the Salmonella bacteria. While we often hear about Salmonella in relation to food poisoning from undercooked meat or raw eggs, rodents can also spread it when they contaminate surfaces or food supplies.
Transmission: Humans typically contract Salmonellosis by ingesting contaminated food or water. If rodents scurry across kitchen counters, nibble on food packaging, or leave droppings in the pantry, they can introduce the bacteria into your meal prep area.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms can last four to seven days, and while many people recover without treatment, it can be more severe for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
Prevention Tips: Store all food in sealed containers and disinfect surfaces regularly. If you suspect any contamination, discard the affected food to avoid taking unnecessary risks.
3. Leptospirosis
Overview: Caused by the Leptospira bacteria, Leptospirosis is another disease that rodents can spread through their urine. Pets, particularly dogs, can also catch and spread it, making it a concern for both human and animal health.
Transmission: The bacteria thrive in water or moist environments. Humans can become infected if they come into contact with water or soil contaminated by infected rodent urine (including through small cuts or abrasions on the skin).
Symptoms: They can vary widely, from mild flu-like symptoms—fever, headaches, chills—to severe complications like kidney damage, meningitis, or liver failure.
Prevention Tips: Keep your property clear of standing water and keep your pets’ living areas clean. Also, wear protective clothing if you’re dealing with potentially contaminated water.
4. Rat-Bite Fever
Overview: Rat-bite fever can be caused by two different bacteria: Streptobacillus moniliformis in North America and Spirillum minus in Asia. Despite the name, you don’t actually have to be bitten by a rat to contract it—consuming food or water contaminated by rodent droppings can also result in infection.
Transmission: As the name suggests, direct bites from rodents are the primary transmission route. However, coming into contact with saliva or droppings can also be a risk factor.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, muscle aches, and a rash on the hands and feet. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like heart or brain infections.
Prevention Tips: Seek immediate medical attention if a rodent bites you. Keep living areas clean, and again, avoid contact with droppings. If you have a rodent problem, address it promptly to reduce any risk of bites.
5. Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)
Overview: LCM is caused by the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), primarily spread by the common house mouse. While often not fatal, LCM can lead to neurological complications.
Transmission: Similar to Hantavirus, LCMV is spread via rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Contamination can happen through inhalation, direct contact, or even bites.
Symptoms: Often begins with flu-like symptoms—fever, headache, muscle aches—and can progress to meningitis or encephalitis. Pregnant women are advised to be especially cautious, as LCM can lead to birth defects.
Prevention Tips: Thoroughly wash hands after cleaning rodent-contaminated areas and wear protective gear if you’re doing a deep clean of a potential nesting site.
How to Reduce Your Risk
The single most effective way to reduce your family’s risk of contracting a rodent-borne disease is to prevent an infestation in the first place. Here are a few quick tips:
- Secure Food Storage: Use containers with tight lids. Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Eliminate Entry Points: Seal gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Remember, mice can fit through a dime-sized hole!
- Keep It Clean: Regularly sweep, vacuum, and mop floors to eliminate crumbs. Take out trash promptly.
- Address Infestations Early: The longer rodents are in your home, the more they can contaminate surfaces and reproduce. Act fast if you suspect an issue.
- Contact Professionals: If you’re overwhelmed or dealing with a large infestation, a licensed pest control company can safely remove rodents and sanitize affected areas.
Our Role at Wake Pest
We take rodent-borne diseases seriously. When we visit a home in Raleigh or the surrounding areas, we don’t just set traps and call it a day. We perform a thorough inspection to pinpoint where rodents are entering, nesting, and feeding. We then recommend a tailored plan to eliminate the current infestation and prevent future break-ins. We also provide guidance on safe cleanup and sanitation practices, so you can rest assured your home is not only rodent-free but also healthy for your family.
Final Thoughts
Mice and rats might seem like minor nuisances, but the diseases they can carry are anything but minor. Hantavirus, Salmonellosis, Leptospirosis, Rat-Bite Fever, and Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis are all risks we want you to be aware of. The good news is that with proper home maintenance, early detection, and timely intervention, you can significantly reduce these health hazards.
If you suspect a rodent infestation or just want to ensure your home is secure, please reach out to us at Wake Pest. We’re here to give you peace of mind and help keep your household safe and sound. Knowledge is power, and now that you know the risks, you’re well on your way to creating a rodent-free and healthy environment for you and your loved ones.