Why should you eradicate your rodent population?

Rodents carry bacteria and viruses which can lead to the transfer of harmful and sometimes deadly diseases to humans when brought into close proximity to human habitations. A few of the infections which can be transmitted to humans include hantavirus, a form of meningitis from the virus LCMV, rat bite fever and leptospirosis which can develop into Weils disease. These infections can have serious consequences which can in cases be fatal. Most diseases contracted from rodents have symptoms similar in nature to the flu and thus can often go unnoticed and incorrectly diagnosed. As such it is imperative that you take the proper precautionary measures while treating your rodent infestation to protect yourself and those around you.

How are these diseases transmitted?

Infections can be acquired following contract with urine, droppings or bedding materials, through rodent bites and through breathing in rodent droppings, urine, dust or dander from contaminated bedding materials. In short diseases transmitted by rodents fall into two camps;

Diseases transmitted directly from exposure to rodent faeces, bites or urine

Diseases indirectly transmitted by an intermediate arthropod vector such as mites, ticks or fleas

How should I clean up Rodent waste matter?

You should always wear disposable gloves and a suitable face mask, removing any droppings or urine with a disinfectant wipe followed by spraying the area with a strong disinfectant.

You should avoid sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings, urine or nest materials, as this causes infections material to become air bound and thus inhaled.

In summary, how can you reduce the risk of infection while you are treating your rodent infestation?

Wash your hands regularly in warm soapy water

Clean any skin which comes into contact with rodent waste matter immediately and thoroughly

Wear plastic gloves and ensure that all cuts and scratches are covered in waterproof plasters when dealing with rodent waste (dispose of gloves after use)

Wash contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding with a strong detergent on a very hot wash

Regularly clean the premises of rodent waste

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while in contact with rodents or any of your treatment equipment such as bait boxes and always wear plastic gloves when handling your equipment.

Treating a rodent infestation might sound intimidating and hazardous, but with the right equipment and following these common sense safety measures your treatment will be safe and easy with Pest Expert.

If you do have a rodent problem and start to notice signs of ill health, it is always recommended that you consult your local GP immediately.