Everyone has heard that rats are dirty creatures. Many people know about the Black Plague that ravaged England and Europe in the middle ages. We now know that the fleas that bite rats and then bite humans (or other animals) carry Bubonic Plague. Transference of the disease happens while fleas from the rats bite humans.

Wounds inflicted by rats can result in a number of diseases and fevers.

Leptospirosis, a disease that causes severe liver as well as kidney damage can be spread through rat urine and feces. It is contracted by drinking or being exposed to water that rats have contaminated. The symptoms of this disease include renal failure, liver problems, and cardio-vascular problems.



(LCMV)/Lymphocytic choriomeningitis a viral infection that is transmitted throughout the bodily fluids of rats. It attacks the lymph system
Rat-bite Fever is a disease believed to be spread throughout a bite, scratch, or straight contact with a rat carcass. It starts with flu like symptoms and can become fatal.
Salmonellosis is a sickness that comes from overwhelming food plus water that has been contaminated by rat droppings. It causes great gastrointestinal distress.
Hantavirus is very serious. It is caused by inhaling the airborne particles of decayed rat feces or carcasses. It starts with flu like symptoms then progresses to respiratory distress if not treated.

Typhus can also be transmitted by rats to humans and other animals. Diseases transmitted by rats are typically transmitted directly to the victim from exposure to infected feces or urine, and bites or diseases indirectly spread to victim by a secondary parasite such as fleas, ticks, or mites.

In order to avoid these terrible and dangerous diseases that can be transmitted by rats, you must eliminate any rats as soon as you know you have an infestation. Further care must be taken in order to all rat feces, nesting materials as well as dead bodies safely. Spray the cleaned out areas systematically with an enzyme-based disinfectant previous to sweeping or scrubbing to keep away from having some particles become airborne. Always wear, a facemask, goggles and handbag to handle rodent carcasses or compost. Any Building ought to be aired out completely following clean up after an infestation.

If you feel that you have a problem with rats, the serious health threat to you and your family should not be ignored. Your best bet is to contact an animal removal service and allow these professionals to assist you. They are familiar with the rat’s habits, and know the best way to eliminate your problem. They can also help with the removal of bodies, and cleanup. You can consult with your professional agent to create a plan to prevent re-infestations as well.

Read the How to get rid of rats page for helpful information and to learn more about Rat diseases that affect humans

Rat diseases that affect humans