Even in Florida where winter temperatures are still mild, the change forces rodents to seek shelter in homes and businesses. Unfortunately, something most people don’t think about is the threat posed by rodents and pests to both our health and property. Rodents invade an estimated 21 million homes in the U.S. every winter. An infestation can cause more than just a headache for homeowners. 
Rodents such as mice and rats search for food, warmth and shelter indoors, often entering homes and businesses through small cracks and crevices. However, the real concern is that these pests can spread diseases and cause serious property damage once inside.
The accumulation of feces from mice and rats can spread bacteria, contaminate food sources and trigger allergic reactions in humans. Once the fecal matter becomes dry, it can be hazardous to those who breathe it in. Moreover, rodent droppings can spread diseases and viruses, including those listed below.
Hantavirus: Hantavirus is a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted to humans by rodents—primarily, the white-footed deer mouse. People become infected through exposure or inhalation of infected rodent urine, droppings or saliva. As a result, the chances increase when people are near spaces where rodents are actively living. Last year, ten people fell ill and three died from exposure to deer mice infected with Hantavirus after staying in tent cabins at Yosemite National Park. Early symptoms of the disease include fatigue, fever and muscle aches, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People may also experience headaches, dizziness, chills and abdominal problems.
Bubonic Plague
Bubonic Plague: Also known as the “Black Death”, the Plague is a highly contagious. This often deadly disease was notorious for killing one-third of the European population during the Middle Ages. The Plague is usually spread by the bite of an infected rodent flea and can cause fever, headache and painfully swollen lymph nodes. A Colorado girl was infected with the Plague in 2012 after falling ill during a camping trip.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is a type of food poisoning spread by rodent feces, especially through the consumption of contaminated food. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain. Each year, approximately 40,000 cases of Salmonella are reported in the U.S., according to WebMD.
Rat-Bite Fever
Rat-bite fever (RBF) is a potentially fatal infectious disease spread by infected rodents or the consumption of food contaminated by rodents. The CDC says that symptoms usually occur 3-10 days after exposure to an infected source and include fever, vomiting, headaches, rash and muscle pain.
In addition to health risks, rodents can pose a significant property risk. They have a tendency to destroy insulation in attics and can chew through wallboards, cardboard, wood and even electrical wiring. In fact, rodents cause up to 25 percent of house fires in the U.S. every year.
With rapid reproduction rates, rodents can quickly go from being unnoticeable to causing a full-blown infestation. Homeowners should look at prevention as the first line of defense again these pests and take steps to keep them out of the home.
Rodent & Pest Control Services
If you have a rodent or pest situation as we described in this article and have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will answer all your pest control and lawn care questions.
With our quick, efficient and modern services related to pest control, Florida homes and offices can become pest-free and stay pest-free; if you see unwanted creatures on your property, contact us – help is just a phone call away!
