Diseases That Rodents Can Bring

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

Cause:  Hantavirus

Transmission:  Hantavirus is primarily spread through the inhalation of dust contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It can also be contracted through direct contact with these substances or through bites from infected rodents. 

Symptoms:  Early symptoms of HPS include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, particularly in the thighs, hips, backs, and shoulders. These symptoms can progress to severe respiratory distress, coughing, and shortness of breath. 

Prevention:  Proper sanitation, sealing of entry points, and eliminating potential rodent habitats around the home are essential preventative measures. Professional pest control services can provide thorough inspections and effective rodent control solutions.

Leptospirosis

Cause:  Leptospira bacteria

Transmission:  This bacterial infection is spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, including rodents. Humans can contract leptospirosis through direct contact with contaminated water or soil, especially through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through mucous membranes. 

Symptoms:  Symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and vomiting to severe cases involving liver damage, kidney failure, meningitis, or respiratory diseases. 

Prevention:  Avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water and soil, as well as controlling rodent populations, are key preventative strategies. Professional pest control services can help identify and mitigate rodent infestations.

Salmonellosis

Cause:  Salmonella bacteria

Transmission:  Rodents can carry Salmonella in their intestines, shedding the bacteria in their feces. Humans can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with rodent feces. 

Symptoms:  Common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to dehydration and require medical attention. 

Prevention:  Proper food storage, sanitation, and rodent control are crucial in preventing salmonellosis. Pest control professionals can assist in identifying and eliminating rodent infestations to minimize the risk.

Plague

Cause:  Yersinia pestis bacteria

Transmission:  Plague is primarily spread through the bite of infected fleas that have fed on infected rodents. It can also be contracted through direct contact with infected animal tissues or fluids. 

Symptoms:  Symptoms of plague can vary depending on the form of the disease but often include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe cases can lead to septicemia or pneumonia. 

Prevention:  Reducing rodent populations and controlling fleas are essential measures. Professional pest control services can provide comprehensive solutions to minimize the risk of plague transmission.

Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)

Cause:  Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)

Transmission:  LCMV is primarily spread by the common house mouse. Humans can contract the virus through inhalation of dust contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, as well as through direct contact with these substances. 

Symptoms:  Initial symptoms include fever, malaise, lack of appetite, muscle aches, headache, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, LCM can lead to neurological diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis. 

Prevention:  Ensuring proper sanitation and controlling rodent populations are vital preventative steps. Professional pest control services can offer effective rodent management solutions. 

Contact West Termites & Pest Today

Rodents pose significant health risks due to the variety of diseases they can transmit. Ensuring a rodent-free home is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy living environment. At West Termites & Pest, we understand the importance of protecting your home and family from these health hazards. Our expert team provides comprehensive pest control, termite control, and lawn care & treatment services across Arkansas and Oklahoma.

Take advantage of our free consultation to assess your home for potential pest issues and let us help you implement effective solutions to keep your home safe. Contact West Termites & Pest today for a thorough and professional service tailored to your needs. Your health and safety are our top priorities!