5 Health risks associated with a rodent infestation in Atlanta, Georgia
Searching for health risks associated with a rodent infestation in Atlanta? Here are 5 diseases that are caused by having a rodent problem in your home.
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To safeguard yourself from the detrimental effects of rodent infestation in Atlanta, learn about the health risks that arise from it. Diseases transmitted by rodents, health risks associated with rodent droppings and urine, and allergies and respiratory problems caused by rodent infestation are the sub-sections that we’ll be focusing on.
Diseases transmitted by rodents
Rodent-borne illnesses are a major health risk in Atlanta. Its geography and humid subtropical climate make conditions perfect for rodents to thrive. Symptoms of these illnesses include:
- Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS): a deadly respiratory disease spread through infected rodent urine, droppings or saliva. It can be fatal if not treated soon.
- Salmonellosis: a bacterial infection caused by food contaminated with rat feces. It leads to diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.
- Leptospirosis: a dangerous bacterial disease spread through contact with water or soil with the urine of infected rodents. Symptoms include jaundice, kidney failure and more.
- Rat-bite fever: this is caused by bacteria present in rodents’ mouths or noses. It causes headache, fever, vomiting and muscle pain.
- Plague: a rare but deadly disease caused by Yersinia pestis bacteria which is carried by fleas hosted on rats. If untreated, it can kill within two days.
Rodents also carry ectoparasites like mice fleas, which lead to flea-borne typhus.
Ignoring rodent infestations in Atlanta can have serious consequences. In Atlanta, an old school building had an extensive rat infestation due to poor management. Students came into contact with droppings and urine and many contracted HPS.
For other nuisance wildlife related diseases see – Wildlife Diseases: Dangerous Disease Transmitted by Wildlife
Health risks associated with rodent droppings and urine
Rodents’ excrement and urine can cause serious health problems. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is contracted through droppings, which can lead to flu-like symptoms and even respiratory failure. Salmonella and Leptospirosis can also be passed on through feces. Plus, the odor of waste affects the air quality, leading to allergic reactions such as nausea, skin irritation, and difficulty breathing.
Rodents spread their waste easily, so it’s important to keep on top of it. Professional rodent removal services provided by Perimeter Wildlife Control alongside effective cleaning can help to reduce the risks. Regular pest control inspections are a must for homes, buildings and other spaces with rodents.
Allergies and respiratory problems caused by rodent infestation
In Atlanta, rodents can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory distress, resulting in a spectrum of unsavory symptoms. Common reactions include difficulty breathing, sneezing, and coughing due to exposure to their urine and droppings. Severe health risks, such as asthma attacks and severe infections, may arise from close contact.
Treatment for these symptoms is available; however, it’s essential to remove the cause first: the rodents. Rodent infestations bring about flu-like illnesses and respiratory allergies from the allergens present in their fecal matter and urine, which can cause breathing issues and sneezing fits. Asthma attacks can also be triggered by their presence.
To avoid these risks, it’s important to keep living spaces tidy and clutter-free, as well as to regularly check for any signs of rodent activity. Additionally, homeowners should take preventive steps like sealing gaps around doors and windows or using insecticide treatments around the home’s foundation. Above all, staying vigilant about the potential for rat or mouse infestations in Atlanta homes will reduce the risk of any health issues.
Prevention and control of rodent infestation in Atlanta
To prevent and control rodent infestation in Atlanta, you need to take action. Keep rodents out of your home by maintaining it properly. You should also rodent-proof your home using specific techniques. If you have an infestation, you can try using traps and baits for control. However, professional rodent control services like Perimeter Wildlife Control, provide the most effective solution.