Children and the elderly are particularly at risk for diseases that are spread by rats, but everyone is vulnerable. What are these diseases? And how can you prevent them?
Rats aren’t evil; they don’t intend to make you sick, and it’s unfortunate that they have such a negative reputation. But the reality is, rats spread disease–and this can cause big problems for your household. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk for diseases that are spread by rats, but everyone is vulnerable. What are these diseases? And how can you prevent them? Read on to find out.
1. Rat-Bite Fever
This disease is spread by contaminated food. Rodents, particularly rats, love to raid pantries! It’s not always clear whether or not a rat has been in your food supply, and sometimes, food near droppings can get contaminated easily. RBF is potentially deadly, so it’s important to watch out for rodent droppings and signs of them throughout your kitchen.
2. Bubonic Plague
Yes, it’s still around. Most people don’t worry about the plague because they think it’s just history, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The bubonic plague is most certainly still a problem, and it’s spread by rodents just like it was hundreds of years ago. While not 100% fatal, it’s still dangerous, and you don’t want it floating around your household. Usually, it’s spread by the bite of a rodent flea.
3. Hantavirus
It’s potentially life-threatening, and it’s seriously easy to catch. Hantavirus is usually spread wherever there is large amounts of rat urine, and can be spread simply through proximity to rodents. With such an easy passage to the human body, Hantavirus is just another reason why rodents should be immediately removed.
How to Reduce the Risk of Rat-Borne Diseases in Your Home
How to Reduce the Risk of Rat-Borne Diseases in Your Home
Preventing diseases associated with rats starts with reducing opportunities for exposure. Most illnesses linked to rodents are not caused by direct contact with the animal itself, but by contact with contaminated environments. This makes everyday household habits and maintenance decisions especially important.
One of the most critical steps is safe cleanup. Rat droppings, urine, and nesting materials should never be swept or vacuumed, as this can release contaminated particles into the air. Instead, affected areas should be ventilated, treated with a disinfectant, and cleaned using gloves and disposable materials. Public health agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend minimizing direct handling and avoiding dry cleanup methods entirely.
Food storage and sanitation also play a major role. All food, including pet food, should be stored in sealed containers. Crumbs, spills, and open trash create reliable food sources that encourage rodents to remain nearby.
Kitchens, pantries, garages, and basements should be checked regularly for signs of activity, especially during colder months when rats are more likely to move indoors.
Limiting access points is another key measure. Rats can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Gaps around pipes, vents, doors, foundations, and rooflines should be sealed using appropriate materials. Cluttered storage areas should be reorganized so nesting sites are harder to establish and signs of activity are easier to spot.
Finally, it’s important to recognize when prevention alone is not enough. An active infestation increases disease risk over time, particularly in enclosed or frequently used spaces. Professional removal reduces exposure during cleanup and helps prevent recurring problems that DIY methods often fail to address.
Reducing risk is about consistency, awareness, and timely action. The sooner rodent activity is addressed, the lower the chance that contamination becomes a health issue inside the home.
Shumaker’s Animal Control can help get rid of your rat problem today!
Shumaker’s Animal Control has over 25 years of experience in the animal and pest control field. Whatever your problem, we can help remedy the situation and restore your home (or yard) back to normal. Give us a call at (443) 854-8072 or contact us online today to see how we can help you! For more information on household and neighborhood pests and how to protect your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.
