Top 5 Diseases Caused by Pests and Rodents and How to Protect Yourself

Top 5 Diseases Caused by Pests and Rodents and How to Protect Yourself

Are you aware that pests and rodents are more than just pesky intruders in your home? They can also pose significant health risks to you and your family. In this blog post, we will explore the top five diseases caused by pests and rodents and what you can do to protect yourself.

1. Salmonella

Salmonella is a bacterial infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with rodent feces. Rodents can easily access food in your home, eat it, and defecate in the same area, contaminating the food. Symptoms of salmonella include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. To avoid salmonella, ensure that all food containers are tightly sealed, and keep your kitchen clean and free of crumbs.

2. Hantavirus

Hantavirus is transmitted through the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness, fever, and muscle aches. Hantavirus can be fatal if left untreated. To avoid hantavirus, always wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, when dealing with rodents, and ensure proper ventilation when cleaning rodent infested areas.

3. Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites, which can be carried by rodents such as mice and chipmunks. The disease can cause fever, fatigue, and a rash. To avoid Lyme disease, ensure that you keep your lawn and garden free of tick-friendly areas, such as tall grass and leaf piles. Wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants can also help prevent tick bites.

4. Plague

Plague is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through rodent bites or fleas that infest rodents. Symptoms of the plague include fever, weakness, and swollen glands. The disease can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. To avoid the plague, keep your home and surroundings clean to avoid rodent infestations and fleas.

5. Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water, including those found in containers in your home or yard. Although it is not directly caused by rodents, rodents can attract mosquitoes, and thereby increase the risk of dengue fever. Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, and muscle and joint pain. To avoid dengue fever, ensure that your home is free of stagnant water and take measures to prevent mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and mosquito nets.

Conclusion

Pests and rodents can bring forth more than just inconvenience to your life. They can be carriers of deadly diseases that can affect your health and wellbeing. By taking the necessary precautions to keep your home and surroundings clean, you can safeguard yourself and your family from the risks associated with pests and rodents. Remember to always practice good hygiene, wear protective clothing and gear, and keep your surroundings clean and pest-free.