Can Rats Pick Up Other Viruses?
WouterWhether or not rats can pick up other viruses is an important question to answer before administering antiviral medication. The test results are based on the presence of antigens or proteins on the surface of the virus. Specifically, the test detects nucleocapsid protein, which is similar to the protein used in pregnancy tests. This protein reacts with the test solution to turn the T line red. If the T line turns red, then there is a high chance of the virus being present. If the test is positive, then the virus is still replicating and the person is still infectious.
PCR tests can detect the virus during the early and late stages of infection. The rat’s immune system will recognize the viral antigens, which are present during the infectious stage. This antigens are what pass the virus on. If you suspect you have COVID, you should stay in isolation for at least seven days. If you don’t have symptoms, you should still avoid high-risk settings.
While rats can’t pick up other viruses from humans, they can pick up other viruses through their droppings. These rodents can transmit diseases through their bites, fleas, and mites, as well as from other rodents. They can also spread disease through their food and materials. In fact, a rat’s droppings can carry a number of different infections.
