Does your home have uninvited guests in the form of mice? These little creatures might seem harmless but did you know they can bring along some serious health threats? In both rural farmhouses filled with bundles of paddy and city apartments, rats manage to sneak in, making themselves at home. They sustain themselves by feasting on spilt food, raiding pockets for snacks and nibbling on vegetables like carrots and tomatoes. Interestingly, they also have a soft spot for coconut covers.
Beyond the annoyance of finding chewed-up belongings, these tiny intruders pose a more significant problem the threat of diseases that could jeopardise our well-being. Not only do they wreak havoc on our electronic gadgets, cars and bikes but they also bring along a hidden danger that often goes unnoticed.
One of the major concerns is the Hantavirus, a nasty illness transmitted through contact with rat urine, droppings or saliva. This virus can lead to severe respiratory problems and, in some cases, prove fatal.
Then there’s the not-so-friendly rat-bite fever. A surprise encounter with a rat that results in bites or bruises might seem harmless initially, but without prompt medical attention, it can escalate into a feverish situation.
Remember the infamous plague? While it might not be as rampant as in history, rats are still potential carriers, posing a risk of spreading this once-deadly disease. Leptospirosis is another health menace associated with rats dwelling in contaminated water or soil. The bacteria they carry can range from causing a mild fever to inflicting kidney and liver damage in humans. And let’s not forget salmonellosis, a common bacterial infection facilitated by rats. This unwelcome ailment can bring about fever, stomach cramps, and even diarrhoea.
It’s crucial to recognise that these seemingly innocent creatures can bring about more than just economic damage. They carry the potential to wreak havoc on our physical health and pose a risk to the broader community.
So, what can we do to safeguard ourselves and our surroundings? Vigilance is key. Taking proactive measures to control the rat population is not only an economic necessity but also a significant step towards preventing the health risks they bring. Those tiny paws scampering around your home might be more than just a nuisance.
