On an average, each house rat can carry 7 deadly diseases, experts said

The presence of house mice around our homes is not only a nuisance but also a major health risk. Recent cases of hantavirus, a deadly rodent disease that has claimed four lives in the United States, highlight the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.   Rats are known to spread many deadly diseases, especially in areas with poor sanitation and unsanitary food preparation. Here are 7 deadly diseases caused by mice in our homes.

Hantavirus

Hanta Virus Hanta virus is a serious respiratory disease spread through the urine, feces and saliva of infected mice. The virus can spread through the air as infected dust particles move around. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches and fatigue, progressing to coughing and shortness of breath.   With a fatality rate of up to 38 percent, hantaviruses pose a serious threat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To prevent hantavirus, it is important to maintain good hygiene and avoid contact with rat feces.

Plague 

Historically known as the Black Death, the plague was caused by Yersinia pestis bacteria carried by fleas that attacked rats. The disease can occur in three forms: Black Death, Sepsis and Pneumonia. Bubonic plague is characterized by swollen lymph nodes, fever and chills, while septicemic plague causes bleeding and necrosis. Pneumonic plague affects the lungs and can be fatal if not treated promptly. A study published in the journal Nature Communications found that improvements in sanitation and pest control can significantly reduce the spread of pests.

Salmonella

Salmonella infection, or salmonellosis, is a common bacterial illness caused by consuming food or water contaminated with rat feces.   Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Salmonella can cause serious illness, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Ensuring proper food hygiene and rodent control during food storage can help prevent this disease.

Rat bite fever

Rat-bite fever is an infectious disease spread through the bite or scratch of an infected rat or through contact with rat feces. The disease can be caused by two bacteria: Strepto Bacteria moniliforme and Spirulina. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, headache and muscle aches. If left untreated, rat bite fever can lead to serious complications such as endocarditis and meningitis. A study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases highlights the importance of prompt treatment after a rat bite. 

 Leptospirosis

Set an alarm to check the water tank.   Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species that can enter the body through wounds or mucous membranes through contact with water or soil contaminated with rat urine. Symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe illness, including liver damage, kidney failure and meningitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that leptospirosis is particularly common in tropical regions and areas with poor sanitation. Avoiding exposure to potentially contaminated water and maintaining a clean environment are important precautions.

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM)

LCM is a viral infection caused by lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) transmitted by common house mice. Humans can become infected with LCM through contact with rat urine, feces, or nesting materials.   Early symptoms include fever, malaise and loss of appetite, and in severe cases it can progress to meningitis or encephalitis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends controlling rodent populations and reducing contact with rodent habitats to prevent LCM.

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).

HFRS is a group of diseases caused by hantaviruses that can cause symptoms of severe kidney damage and bleeding. The disease is spread through rat feces and symptoms include fever, bleeding and acute kidney failure. The World Health Organization states that HFRS has a high mortality rate, especially if it is not treated right away. Prevention strategies include rodent control, avoiding contact with rodent habitats, and practicing good hygiene.

Reference

Author: MedBlog18 Blog Team

Views: 20