8 Most Dangerous Diseases Spread by Rats and Rodents

Rats and rodents are not only a nuisance, but they can also be dangerous to your health. They are known to spread a number of dangerous diseases. Some of these diseases can be deadly, while others can cause serious illness. Here are some of the most dangerous diseases spread by rats and rodents:

1. Plague

Plague is a deadly disease that is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. This bacterium is typically found in rodents, and it can be spread to humans through contact with infected animals or their fleas. 

Plague can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

2. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM)

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis is a viral disease that is spread by rodents, specifically mice and rats. The virus can be spread to humans through contact with infected rodents or their urine. LCM can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, and nausea. 

In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis, a potentially fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

3. Salmonellosis

Salmonellosis is caused by a bacteria called Salmonella enterica. The disease is transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated food or water. 

Salmonellosis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, diarrhea, dehydration and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

4. Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria called Leptospira interrogans. The bacteria can be spread to humans through contact with infected rodents or their urine. 

Leptospirosis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney damage, liver failure, and death.

5. Rat-bite fever

Rat-bite fever is caused by a bacteria called Streptobacillus moniliformis that is spread by rodents, specifically rats and mice. The bacteria can be spread to humans through contact with infected rodents or their bites. 

Rat-bite fever can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, rash, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

6. Hantavirus

Hantavirus is another virus that can be spread by rats and rodents. The virus is found in the urine and droppings of infected rodents. It can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated food, water, or soil.

Symptoms of hantavirus include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and vomiting. If left untreated, the hantavirus can be fatal. 

7. Typhus

Typhus is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. It is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia typhi, found in infected fleas’ feces. The disease is transmitted to humans through contact with infected fleas. 

Symptoms of typhus include fever, headache, and rash. If left untreated, the disease can lead to death.

8. Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite that is spread by rats and rodents. It can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. In pregnant women, it can cause serious birth defects in the baby. 

Conclusion

It is important to be aware of the dangers that rats and rodents can pose to human health. They can carry a number of diseases that can be easily spread to humans, including the plague, Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM), salmonellosis, leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, hantavirus, Typhus, and toxoplasmosis. 

While there are steps that can be taken to prevent these diseases from spreading, it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions accordingly.

If you’re looking for a reliable rodent extermination service near Thornton, Colorado, look no further than Bee Smart Pest Control. Our experienced technicians are dedicated to providing effective and efficient pest control solutions, allowing you to keep your home safe and free of pests. Call us to schedule an appointment!