What Happens If You Drink Rat Pee?
WouterThe bacterial infection leptospirosis is often fatal. It is transmitted to humans through the air, water, and open wounds. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also affect the kidneys. Although there are no known cures, leptospirosis is treatable with antibiotics.
The risk of infection is higher for those who regularly swim, practice water sports, or work near water. In most cases, the disease is spread by drinking water that is contaminated with rat urine. While there are no reported cases of death from consuming contaminated water, the symptoms of leptospirosis may be similar to other illnesses.
The most common symptoms of leptospirosis are fever and diarrhea. In severe cases, the patient may even need to be hospitalized. Although most people infected with leptospirosis only experience mild symptoms, one in ten people contract leptospirosis and develop severe illness. In the most severe cases, the infection can lead to kidney failure, meningitis, and even death.
It is important to note that rats carry several types of viruses. The CDC lists seven diseases that North American rats directly transmit to humans, and another 11 diseases that they indirectly transmit to humans. If you are allergic to rodents, avoid eating anything that has been exposed to rat dander. Additionally, rat excrement can contain harmful bacteria such as listeriosis, which can cause blood infections and meningitis.
