How to Protect Yourself From Rats and Mice
WouterWhile you might be tempted to try to deal with a rat problem yourself, it is best to call a pest control service to do the job properly. While rats and mice can be unpleasant to live with, they will not actually bite you or scratch you, unless they see you as a threat. But having them around is not recommended because of the hygiene issues they carry.
Rats and mice can carry many diseases, from skin infections to infectious diseases. Their droppings are a big mess and they can even chew on wires and furniture. These creatures can cause serious damage to your property, so it is important to take the appropriate precautions. And if you do get bitten by a rat, you should see a doctor immediately.
The most obvious way to protect yourself against mice is to seal up any openings. Be sure to use durable materials to seal off these areas. Sheet metal, rubber, or vinyl are good choices. Avoid wood and insulating foam as these materials can be chewed away. You can also read up on how to protect yourself from rodents in the National Park Service manual.
The National Pest Management Association estimates that rodents cause problems in 21 million homes across the United States every winter. In addition to triggering allergies, rodents may also transmit harmful diseases such as tularemia. These diseases are often spread through their feces and urine.
