How are Rodents dangerous for your Home and Health?
Rodents are tiny invaders of space that can contaminate your food supplies and cause significant damage to property in a short amount of time. This blog will explore the dangers associated with rodents and what you can do to control them.
What diseases do Rodents Cause?
Rodents are carriers of several diseases and exposure to their urine, feces or saliva can lead to various health complications such as:
- Hantavirus: This is a life-threatening virus that is primarily spread by rodents. The symptoms of its infection resemble the flu like fever, muscle aches and fatigue but can quickly develop into severe respiratory issues. The Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is fatal in about 38% cases, making it the deadliest rodent-borne disease.
- Salmonella Infections: Rodent feces carry salmonella bacteria and can be easily spread through food contamination. Symptoms of salmonella infection include stomachache, diarrhea, fever and vomiting. These infections are particularly dangerous for young children, elderly people and individuals with compromised immune systems.
- Leptospirosis: This is a bacterial infection caused through contact with water or soil contaminated by rodent urine. The symptoms include mild heaches and muscle pain but can lead to kidney damage, liver failure and might result in fatality. This deases is common in tropical and subtropical regions and thus, makes extermination of the rodents necessary.
- Plague: Throughout history, it has been called “Black Death” as it can lead to major fatalities in a small amount of time. Even though it is less common, it can still occur in rodent infested regions.
For homeowners looking to handle rodent infestation, several DIY techniques can be highly effective when used correctly. Some of these include:
- Rodent Traps: These are the most widely used control methods where either snap traps or glue traps are used to catch rodents. These methods are inexpensive and just need to be places in high-activity areas, catching rodents in no time.
- Baits: Rodenticide-poisoned food is used to lure rodents and can kill them within a few days of ingestion. These are effective but need to be handled carefully and kept out of reach of children or pests.
- Exclusion Techniques: These methods focus on sealing entry points where rodents might squeeze through. Steel wool, caulk and hardware clothing can be used to block any small holes or cracks in walls, floors and foundations. Vents and Chimneys need to be covered up in case there is frequent entry of rats from such points.
Natural Remedies for Rodent Control
While professional and DIY methods are effective, residents can also opt for natural remedies that can help prevent and control rodents. These include:
- Peppermint Oil: Rodents are known to be repelled by strong smells like peppermint oil. Cotton balls soaked in it can be kept in areas such as crack or vents to prevent their entry.
- Garlic: Garlic also has a strong smell which rodents tend to avoid. A mixture of garlic and cayenne pepper can be applied around the perimeter of the house or problem areas.
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