Rodents carry a wide range of disease-causing organisms, including many species of bacteria, viruses, protozoa and helminths (worms). They also act as vectors or reservoirs for many diseases via their ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, lice and mites, as well as some diseases carried by mosquitoes.
Why do mice have so many diseases?
Mice spread disease thanks to other pests that may catch a ride into your home. For instance, Lyme disease and Colorado tick fever are transmitted by ticks, which often hitchhike inside on the furry backs of mice.
Why do rats carry diseases?
Transmission of diseases usually occurs through several routes: 1. Exposure to (handling of, ingesting of, and airborne particles from) infected rodent waste including: feces, urine, saliva, and nesting material.
What rodents carry the most diseases?
Rodents such as rats and mice are associated with a number of health risks. In fact, rats and mice are known to spread more than 35 diseases. These diseases can be spread to humans directly through handling of live or dead rodents, contact with rodent feces, urine, or saliva, as well as rodent bites.
How many diseases do rodents carry?
Worldwide, rats and mice spread over 35 diseases. These diseases can be spread to humans directly, through handling of rodents, through contact with rodent feces, urine, or saliva, or through rodent bites.
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