Do Rats Make You Sick?
WouterIf you have a rat in your home, you may be worried about catching a disease. However, you should know that rat-borne diseases are relatively rare and can be passed from person to person through contact with rat saliva or urine. In some cases, they can cause serious illness like rat-bite fever. Other symptoms include headaches and nausea.
Rats are also susceptible to Staphylococcus bacteria, which can cause infections. Because of their weakened immune systems, rats are more susceptible to this infection. The bacteria can infect the skin and cause abscesses. In some cases, these abscesses can spread to other areas of the body.
Rats can carry up to 35 different diseases. As a result, it is very important to take precautions whenever you come into contact with dead or infected rats. Using protective gear and sanitizing the area around the infected rats can help protect against the diseases. Besides their bites and scratches, rat-borne disease can be transmitted through the food and bedding of infected rats.
Another disease that can cause you to get sick from rats is leptospirosis. This disease is caused by bacteria found in the urine of infected animals. Fortunately, it is not common in the developed world. However, in areas where rats are commonly found, it is still important to take precautions to prevent infection from occurring.
