Rats are commonly found in many homes but can also be a problem. Rats can carry many diseases, some of which are deadly to humans. Preventing rat diseases is essential to ensuring that people don’t get sick.
Rodent-borne diseases are a severe public health problem in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 1 million Americans are infected with a rodent-borne disease each year, and over 500,000 are hospitalized.
Thus, the severity of the situation can be estimated, and quick extermination action must be followed. But before that, let us first know about some common rat diseases that prevail worldwide.
Types Of Rat-Borne Diseases
Several rat borne diseases can be harmful to humans or to other animals. The most common rat diseases include rat bite fever, rat lungworm disease, and rat-borne encephalitis.
Rat Bite Fever
Rat bite fever is a dangerous rat disease. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which can be transmitted from rats to humans through the bite of an infected rat. Rat bite fever can cause various symptoms, including fever, headache, and muscle aches. Sometimes, it can lead to a severe brain infection known as meningitis.
Rat Lungworm
Rat lungworm disease is a severe condition caused by a parasitic worm called angiostrongylus cantonensis. This worm is spread through the bite of an infected rat. Symptoms of rat lungworm disease include fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, the worm can cause severe brain damage.
Encephalitis
Rat-borne encephalitis is a severe condition that is caused by a virus. It is most common in infants and young children but can also be a problem in adults. Symptoms of rat-borne encephalitis include fever, headache, neck stiffness, and seizures.
Rat Extermination Is A Necessary Procedure To Ensure Safety
There is a rat problem in many homes, and it is necessary to take steps to address the issue. Rats can spread diseases and contaminate food, and their presence can cause a lot of problems. Extermination is the only way to ensure safety and cleanliness in a home. There are several ways to protect yourself and your home from rat diseases.
Many rodent-borne diseases are preventable. The CDC recommends that individuals take the following steps to protect themselves from rodent-borne diseases:
- Avoid exposure to rodents and their nests.
- Keep your home clean and free of food and water sources for rodents.
- Use a tick repellent to prevent the bites that can transmit Lyme disease.
- Get vaccinated against rodent-borne diseases.
- Monitor your health closely if you develop symptoms of a rodent-borne disease.
If you’re dealing with a large infestation, professional rodent control services can help you take the necessary measures to get rid of the rats and mice. Accurate Pest Control can install rat-proofing, set up traps and bait, and use various other methods to eliminate rodents. They can help you take the necessary measures to eliminate the pests and provide years of pest-free living for you and your family.