Lexington Rat Removal Tip: Rats Carry Many Different Diseases

Rats carry many different harmful diseases that can make humans very sick. The list is very long but for the purposes of this article we will stick to the most common diseases.

Most illness that come from rats are transmitted through a scratch or a bite from one of these dirty little rodents. However, it is important to note that some illnesses can be transmitted through breathing in dust contaminated with their feces.

Another common way these illnesses are transmitted is through flea bites. Fleas feed on infected rats and then jump off. When they bite a pet or human, they transfer the illness picked up from the infected rat.

It is important to wear the proper protective equipment and a face mask when eradicating these rodents. The same caution should also be exercised when cleaning up behind them after they have been eradicated.

Rats and The Diseases They Carry

Rats are popular for transmitting the Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. It is transmitted through contact with rodent saliva, urine or feces and causes flu-like symptoms. This syndrome has a fatality rate of thirty-six percent and typically starts with a sudden shortness of breath.

Leptospirosis is another illness transmitted by rats through contact with moist urine. The symptoms of this illness vary between individuals and some may exhibit no symptoms at all. Others may experience a skin rash, intense headache, chills and severe abdominal or muscle pain.

Rat Bite Fever is a common illness transmitted by rats. It may be contracted through a rat bite or contact with bodily secretions of an infected animal. Again, symptoms vary between individuals. However, many experience chills, fever, vomiting and inflammation of open sores. Some infected individuals also get ulcers on their hands and feet.

Rats often spread Salmonellosis by rummaging through cupboards and snacking on food when humans are unaware. Humans then eat the same food and get sick. People typically experience diarrhea, fever, vomiting and severe stomach cramps for up to seventy-two hours after infection.

Plague is a serious illness that is highly contagious, and it is transmitted by rats. They are thought to be responsible for the outbreak in London back in the 1800s. It can also be transmitted by fleas first feeding on an infected rat and then biting humans. Plague causes high fever, chills, seizures, lymph node swelling and gangrene.

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a skin infection caused by the bite of a sand fly that cohabitates with rats and their nests. It causes fever, fatigue, weight loss and swelling of the liver.

If you suspect any of these illnesses or have had contact with a rat, seek medical attention immediately. These illnesses are serious and some can be fatal.