Few occurrences are as chilling to a homeowner as the skittering sound of a mouse or the flicker of movement in the corner of the eye that signifies a potential rodent infestation. However, the threat of a pest is not merely the inconvenience of food being nibbled or nests being made in the attic; more insidious dangers lurk. Take a look at the pervasive but often underestimated health risks that come hand-in-hand with diseases spread by rodents.
Health Risks Posed by Rodents
Rodents may be small, but they carry hefty dangers. Here's a closer look at the diseases that can be spread:
Hantavirus
Originating in North America, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but severe and potentially fatal respiratory disease. It is spread through contact with the secretions of infected rodents, particularly droppings, and urine, or by inhaling dust contaminated with rodent urine or droppings. Early symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, and coughing, and can quickly progress to severe difficulty in breathing. The species that carry Hantavirus vary by region and include deer mice, cotton rats, and rice rats.
Learn more: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) | CDC
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. Humans can become infected through contact with water, soil, or food contaminated by the urine of infected animals. In the case of rodents, direct contact or through contact with their urine presents a risk. This disease can range from mild and asymptomatic to severe with kidney or liver failure. Early symptoms mimic those of the flu, making it harder to diagnose and leading to increased risk if untreated.
Learn more: Leptospirosis | CDC
Rat-bite Fever
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the name of this disease is quite revealing. Rat-bite fever can be contracted through bites or scratches from rodents such as rats, as well as through contact with their droppings or urine. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, headaches, and body aches, and it can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems.
Learn more: Signs and Symptoms of Rat-bite Fever | CDC
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis, caused by the bacteria Salmonella, can lead to salmonella infection in humans. The bacteria are typically spread through contaminated food, but rodent infestations can lead to the spread within the home environment. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, and while most people recover without treatment, severe complications can occur.
Learn more: Questions and Answers | Salmonella | CDC
Signs of Rodent Infestation
The first step in protecting yourself from the diseases spread by rodents is recognizing their presence in your home. Here are some common red flags to watch for:
- Chewed or gnawed items, such as furniture legs and wiring
- Visual sightings of rodents or their droppings
- Sounds of activity, especially at night
- Unpleasant odors, particularly pervasive urine smells
Proper identification of a potential problem can drastically improve the chances of early eradication, preventing the spread of rodent-related diseases.
Bio-One of Pittsburgh Can Help
When faced with a rodent infestation, you should prioritize both the removal of the pests and the remediation of any potential health hazards they've left behind. Bio-One of Pittsburgh can assist with this critical process. Our teams are experts in cleaning up rodent droppings and urine.
By taking a proactive approach to maintaining a pest-free home, you're investing in the health and safety of your family and loved ones. Remember, even the smallest of rodents can carry the gravest of risks—don't take them for granted. Give us a call for a free consultation in the Western Pennsylvania area!
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Bio-One of Pittsburgh is always ready to assist you in unexpected situations. Our expert specialists are always ready to assist you in dealing with highly pressurized situations that may be emotionally and physically draining, allowing you to focus on other vital activities while healing in a sanitary environment. Locally owned and operated, we provide the following:
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Bio-One works closely with victim support centers nationwide and local authorities, communities, emergency services personnel, hoarding task forces, apartment communities, insurance companies, and other organizations to accomplish each customer's most efficient and superior service possible.
Many crime scene cleanup companies may face unexpected, unfortunate life events. Still, Bio-One is the right choice because of our expertise and profoundly caring and discreet specialists.
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