Diseases Spread by Rats and Mice

Rats and mice pose a public health risk as they can carry and transmit diseases to humans. Legislation mandates rodent control where they present such a threat.

Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease)

• Weil’s disease is caused by bacteria present in infected rat urine. A significant proportion of rats carry this bacteria.
• Infection can occur through cuts in the skin or by ingesting contaminated material (e.g., by touching contaminated hands to the mouth while eating or smoking).
• While the bacteria die quickly in dry conditions, they can survive for extended periods in wet environments such as riverbanks, lakes, canals, ditches, and muddy areas. Caution should be exercised when working in these conditions.
• Initial symptoms resemble the flu, including persistent headaches. In some cases, liver infection and jaundice-like symptoms may develop.
• The disease can be severe and potentially fatal. Symptoms typically appear 3-19 days after exposure.
• If you suspect infection, seek medical attention immediately, informing your doctor of potential contact with rats.
• Suspected cases of Leptospirosis must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Hantavirus

• Hantavirus, carried by Norway rats and mice, can cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, which can be fatal.
• Initial symptoms include headache, back and abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and blurred vision. Later stages may involve low blood pressure, shock, vascular leakage, and kidney failure.
• The disease is spread by inhaling dust contaminated with rat or mouse nesting material and droppings. It is rare in the UK.

Salmonella and Other Food Poisoning Bacteria

• Rodents can carry food poisoning bacteria, including Salmonella, and contaminate food and food preparation surfaces.
• They can physically transport bacteria on their feet and fur from contaminated areas to food and food preparation areas.
• Bacteria can survive rodent digestion and be present in their droppings.
• Rodent control is essential in and around food premises. Rats can also transmit Salmonella and other diseases to farm animals.

Toxoplasmosis

• This parasitic infection can affect most warm-blooded animals and is common worldwide.
• It is often found in the feces of infected cats.
• Transmission usually occurs through the food chain or from a pregnant woman to her unborn child.
• Symptoms in healthy individuals often resemble mild flu or glandular fever, including fever, sore throat, and muscle aches. However, severe reactions are possible.

Other Rat-Borne Diseases:

Rats can also carry other diseases, including:

• Bubonic plague
• Trichinosis