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Did you know that rats are extremely tidy rodents? In fact, rats spend a great deal of their day cleaning themselves and their living quarters. They also keep their “bathroom” separate from their “bedroom” in a way that is reminiscent of a dog.

Nonetheless, rats are certainly to blame for spreading diseases. This can happen through the transportation of parasites like ticks, fleas, and mites. They may also spread disease through the human handling of rodents, contact with rat feces and urine, and in the case of a rat bite. In addition, any food or water that may be contaminated by rat fur or excrement is extremely dangerous and poses a serious health risk. Read on to learn about some of the diseases carried by rats.

The following are directly transmitted by rats:

Rat-bite Fever may be contracted through a bite, scratch, or contact with a dead rat. Symptoms can include fever, vomiting, headache, rash, and swelling near the wound.

Salmonellosis is transmitted by consuming contaminated water or food. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramping, and vomiting.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is spread through direct contact with rat feces or urine or by inhaling contaminated dust. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, and coughing. HPS can be fatal and should be taken very seriously!

The following are indirectly transmitted by rats:

Plague is carried by rats and spread through fleas. There are several types of plague and symptoms can include fever, delirium, and infection of the lungs.

Colorado Tick Fever is transmitted by a tick that has taken in blood from a rat. An infected person may experience chills, headache, fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain, and rashes.

Obviously, a rat infestation should be dealt with immediately and very carefully to avoid the spread of any of the aforementioned diseases. We at Freedom Pest Control are experienced in this area and are happy to provide you with your free in-home evaluation. Please call us at 877-PESTS-55 to schedule yours today!