Rodent infestations are a serious problem that can have a significant impact on human health. Rodents can also contaminate food and prep surfaces, leading to food poisoning and other illnesses. These pests are known to carry a variety of diseases, such as salmonella, rat-bite fever, hantavirus and leptospirosis and even have many pages devoted to them on the CDC’s website as well as on the Florida Department of Health’s website.
- Salmonella: Rodents can carry the bacteria that cause salmonella infection, which can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
- Rat-bite fever: This rare but serious disease can be transmitted through a rat bite or through contact with rat urine or feces. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and skin rash.
- Hantavirus: This serious virus is transmitted through contact with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It can cause severe respiratory illness and can be fatal in some cases.
- Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection is transmitted through contact with rodent urine. It can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain, and can lead to kidney damage and other serious complications.
In addition to these diseases, rodents can also cause allergic reactions in some people. Rat and mouse droppings, urine, and hair can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. You can read more about health risks from Rats and other rodents on our Health Risk page. An in-depth article was posted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information which goes into extensive detail about allergen exposure due to rodent infestations if you would like more information still.
One of the most common types of rodents that infest homes and buildings is the house mouse. These small, gray or brown mice can squeeze through tiny openings and can quickly multiply, leading to a large infestation. They are known to cause damage to walls, insulation, and electrical wiring.
Another common type of rodent infestation is caused by Norway rats. These larger, brown rats are known to burrow in the ground, and they can cause damage to foundations and other structural elements of buildings. They are also known to chew on electrical wiring, which can lead to fires. Roof rats are also prone to the same activity, however they are more prone to climb and find entry points on the roof and soffit.
If you suspect a rodent infestation in your home or building, it is important to contact a professional rodent exterminator as soon as possible. The experts at Rodent Solutions have the tools and knowledge to safely and effectively eliminate rodents and prevent future infestations. We also have knowledge and training to properly decontaminate.
If you’re located in the Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Bradenton, or Parrish areas of Florida, Contact us for help with your rodent issue.
