Staying healthy in the winter can be tough, especially with flu and colds going around. But rodents also become a problem when the weather gets cold. Each winter, about 21 million U.S. homes face rodent infestations. Once inside, these pests don’t just cause a mess—they’re known to spread over 35 different diseases and cause major damage to your property.
It’s important to recognize the dangers of rodents and address an infestation quickly to protect your home and your health. While DIY options exist, they often fall short of fully eliminating the issue. This is where a professional rat and mouse exterminator can make all the difference.
Specific Illnesses Caused by Rats and Mice
Rodents spread harmful bacteria and contaminate food sources with their droppings. Once dried, their feces can become dangerous if inhaled. Here are some illnesses spread by rodents:
- Hantavirus – This life-threatening disease is mostly transmitted by the white-footed deer mouse. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and abdominal problems.
- Bubonic Plague – Known as the “Black Death,” this deadly disease killed millions in the Middle Ages. It’s spread by the bite of infected fleas. Symptoms include fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. A Colorado girl was infected with the Plague in 2012 after falling ill during a camping trip.
- Salmonellosis – A type of food poisoning caused by eating food contaminated by rodent droppings. It leads to diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. Each year, approximately 40,000 cases of Salmonella are reported in the U.S., according to WebMD.
- Rat-Bite Fever (RBF) – This disease is spread by infected rodents or food contaminated by rodents. Symptoms appear 3-10 days after exposure and include fever, vomiting, headaches, rash, and muscle pain.
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Property Damage Caused by Rats and Mice
Rodents’ front teeth, or incisors, never stop growing. To keep them sharp, they constantly gnaw on soft materials. Here are some common ways they cause damage:
- Chewed Wires – Rodents often chew through electrical wiring, which can lead to power outages, malfunctioning appliances, or even house fires.
- Damaged Insulation – Mice and rats love to nest in insulation, tearing it apart and leaving behind droppings. This damage reduces the insulation’s effectiveness, increasing heating and cooling costs.
- Structural Damage – Rats and mice can gnaw through walls, floors, and wooden beams, weakening the structure of your home over time.
- Plumbing Issues – Rodents chew through pipes, leading to leaks, flooding, or mold growth. This can result in costly plumbing repairs.
The Bottom Line
If left untreated, mice and rat infestations can be very dangerous. These pests carry diseases, and their droppings can further spread harmful bacteria. Mice and rat exclusion is key to safeguarding your health and protecting your property. If you think you have a mouse or rat problem in your home or business, don’t wait. Get in touch with Contact Insect IQ now. Our skilled rodent exterminators are ready to assist you!
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