Can Ants Give You Diseases?
WouterGenerally speaking, most people don’t think of ants as disease carriers. Instead, they think of rats and fleas. But ants can be carriers of a variety of different diseases.
Ants can be a menace to homes, because they are known to be able to transmit diseases and bacteria. They may also be able to transfer pathogens from leaves or objects that are infected. They can also be a source of food-borne illnesses.
However, ants can also sting, and their bites can be dangerous, especially for sensitive people. They can also deposit formic acid onto the skin when they bite. This corrosive substance can cause blisters, and it can also cause inflammation, pain, and redness.
Ants may also be able to transmit bacteria from the kitchen or pantry to the food that you are eating. These germs can cause gastroenteritis and other gastrointestinal illnesses.
Ants can also be a source of food-borne diseases, like salmonella. They can carry these pathogens in their feces. They can also spread these pathogens to other parts of the colony, including your mouth. They can also contaminate your food with shigella.
If you have an ant colony, you should take steps to prevent the ants from contaminating your food and water. Keeping food in a secure location is a good way to prevent an ant attack. You should also wash your hands with warm water after eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with ants.
