Why Rat & Mouse Infestations are a Health Risk

Why Rat & Mouse Infestations are a Health Risk

Rodent infestations pose a significant threat to hygiene and health. Even though they might seem harmless and small, rodents can cause asthma and allergies and transmit diseases to your home.

Rodents can aggravate asthma and Allergies.

As with cats and dogs, humans can also become allergic to rodents and mice. People with allergies or asthma can be allergic to rodent urine, feces, and saliva. According to a report in the Journal of Occupational Health, it is standard for laboratory animal workers to develop an “occupational allergic reaction to rodents.” Rodent allergies are common. However, rodent allergens are more prevalent in homes than you might think. A survey of 800 homes in the U.S. found that more than 80% had mouse allergies.

Rodents can transmit diseases directly and indirectly to other animals.

Most people mistakenly believe that diseases can only be transmitted through direct contact with animals. Although rats and mice in Silver Springs MD or Washington DC can transmit diseases to humans and other animals, it is more dangerous for human health when rodents spread the disease indirectly.

Infected rodents may transmit diseases to us by inhaling or eating contaminated materials (in Hantavirus). Leptospirosis, for instance, is a disease that can spread from infected rodents’ urine. This is a particularly alarming fact:

a) Mice and rats dribble urine almost continuously.

b) Rats will mark new places with their urine to make objects more familiar and safer. Rats will even “piddle,” or place food next to it to indicate that it is safe to eat. Rats may urinate on the food they have chosen to eat.

c) The “bathroom behavior” of rodents is already gross. But, when you add the risk of infection, it can be a serious health hazard.

d) Rodents can bring new pests and parasites to your property.

e) Fleas and ticks are often brought by rodents to add “plus one” to the party. These pests can transmit diseases and cause painful bites. Ticks can transmit diseases such a Lyme disease and anaplasmosis to humans. Fleas can transmit plague, flea-borne (murine-borne) typhus and cat-scratch diseases. They can also spread tapeworms by swallowing.

We can help you control an infestation in your Silver Spring house and prevent future problems. Contact MTB Pest Control in Silver Springs MD | Get A Free Quote – (301) 613-6570