Can Rats Give You Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a common illness that is caused by a bacterium that lives in wild rodents. It is usually transmitted through the bite of a tick that is infected with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The symptoms of Lyme disease include erythema migrans, fever, headache, and fatigue. If untreated, the condition can progress to affect the heart, joints, and nervous system.

Rats carry the bacteria known as rat-bite fever in their mouths and noses. They can transmit this disease to humans through their bites or scratches. The infection can also spread through contact with rat feces, water, and food. Fortunately, most people who contract rat-bite fever recover without any treatment.

White-footed mice are another common source of Lyme disease. They are important vectors for ticks, and can carry the disease to humans. Although they are not the only source of Lyme disease, they are a popular host for black-legged ticks. Consequently, mice infested with ticks are a prime source of the disease.

People with a history of contact with rodents are at a higher risk for contracting the disease than the general population. In addition to causing haemorrhages, leptospirosis can also lead to organ failure and other serious medical complications.