Rodents are notable disease vectors that have caused several epidemics over the years. With the likes of mice and rats, especially, there are numerous potential health hazards. The two kinds of crawlers are known to spread over 35 diseases. Humans can contract these illnesses from their fecal matter, urine, bites, or saliva.
Beyond the havoc they can wreak in the home are also associated health dangers. Exterminators are good preventive measures against these nuisances in your surroundings.
We’ll be considering three rodent-borne diseases and there common symptoms.
1. HANTAVIRUS
This virus was first discovered in the southwestern region of the United States in the early 90s. Although carried by most rodent species, it’s common to the deer mice. The deadly virus attacks the human respiratory tracts, kidneys, and blood.
Major ways of contraction are rodent invasion in houses. And it’s contained in the urine, saliva, and droppings of an infected rat.
There are no particular vaccines and cures for hantavirus yet. However, if caught early, the infection can be managed by healthcare professionals.
SYMPTOMS
Common indicators of the virus in humans include;
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Fever
- Abdominal irregularities
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches.
2. PLAGUE
The plague was formerly called the “Black Death” and was most predominant in Africa, Asia, and America. It’s a severe bacterial infection caused by an organism named “Yersinia pestis.” The disease is transmitted through fleas that have fed on infected rats. Aside from that, humans can also contract it by handling these diseased animals.
It is subdivided into three types. They include bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plagues. These categories affect lymph nodes, bloodstream, and lungs, respectively.
A plague can be managed with antibiotics if reported quickly in the hospital. Without immediate treatment, the illness can result in death.
SYMPTOMS
The signs may differ according to the subdivisions of the disease. However, there are similar symptoms.
- Fever
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes
- Skin bleeds
- Shock, etc.
3. LASSA FEVER
The viral hemorrhagic fever has caused hordes of death in Africa. The animal vectors are specific types of rodents classified as “multimammate.” Up to date, it’s still a major concern in parts of Western Africa, including countries like Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
Exposure to the Mastomys rodents is a risk factor for getting infected by the disease. However, an antiviral drug, Ribavirin, has effectively combat the illness in most patients.
SYMPTOMS
Most of the symptoms are pronounced within the first to the third week of contracting the virus. They include
- Facial Swelling
- Chest, abdominal, and back pains
- Shock
- Respiratory difficulties
- Vomiting, etc.
Other diseases include leptospirosis, salmonellosis, tularemia, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM). Most of these have fatal implications on the body if abandoned. An example is the LCM with neurological detriments, including meningitis, meningoencephalitis, and encephalitis.
CONCLUSION
Eliminating pests from your space is a good way to prevent these diseases, according to health experts. If you’ve noticed any signs of rodents on your premises, take measures to ensure a clean environment. Find out more tackling methods from pest control specialists today.
