What Bacteria & Diseases Do Mice & Rats Carry that Can Affect Humans in Ocean City, NJ?

For the most part, people are disgusted by the presence of mice and rats in their home. But what makes these rodents so gross? One large filth factor is the variety of diseases that can be spread when you come in contact with mice and rats that make their way into your home. Ross Environmental Solutions is here to talk about the most common diseases spread by mice and rats.

Hantavirus

Hantavirus is one of the most widely known illnesses that is spread by a variety of mice and rats. Some of the mice and rats that carry this disease include the white-footed mouse, rice rat, cotton mouse and deer mouse. Humans can contract this illness from breathing in dust that has been contaminated by rodent urine and feces. You can also contract Hantavirus from touching urine or feces as well as a bite from mice or rats. If infected, you will likely experience flu-like symptoms, renal failure as well as respiratory trouble.

Leptospirosis

This bacteria found in rodent urine around the world can cause some serious discomfort. The bacteria can also be found in soil that has been saturated by rodent urine or contaminated water, and the bacteria can be present in both soil and water for months at a time. Someone infected with leptospirosis may experience muscle aches, vomiting, high fever and headache. In extreme cases, patients also can experience jaundice.

Plague

While the plague is an illness that most people associate with a much older time period, it may surprise you to know that the plague is still present in much of the western United States. It is spread by many small animals including rats. Humans can be infected when they are bitten by an infected flea or have touched an infected animal. There are three types of plague: bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic. Bubonic plague infects the lymph nodes and causes them to be swollen and painful. Septicemic plague victims experience abdominal pain, bleeding into skin and other organs as well as shock. Pneumonic plague affects the respiratory system, causing respiratory failure and shock.

Salmonella

Those experiencing salmonella symptoms often experience gastrointestinal pain and discomfort as well as vomiting and diarrhea. This bacteria is often transmitted to humans when mice or rats contaminate our food and water.

Rat Bite Fever

Although this illness is called rat bite fever, it can be transmitted by rats and mice alike. Obviously, judging by the name, someone can be infected by a bite or scratch from infected mice or rats. You may experience vomiting, body aches, fever as well as a bumpy red rash when infected.

Rodent Control

If you have a rodent problem, it is imperative that you get rid of them as soon as possible. Failure to get rid of them can result in you or those you love becoming infected with some of these serious and often times, life-threatening conditions and illnesses. The professionals at Ross Environmental Solutions can assist you in getting rid of any mice or rat problems you may have. Call us today!