Leptospirosis is a dangerous disease that can spread from animals to humans. It is commonly contracted via infected animal urine that may be found in contaminated water or soil. Here in Australia, leptospirosis is most often found in tropical and subtropical areas like Queensland and the Northeast part of NSW. Rats and mice are carriers of the bacteria Leptospira, and are the suspected source of the outbreak of leptospirosis that killed 7 dogs and sickened at least 52 people over the winter. This means that Sunshine Coast rodent control is essential.
How is leptospirosis contracted?
There are three main ways that leptospirosis is transmitted. The first is via direct contact with the bacteria, either through mucous membranes or breaks in the skin. When there is heavy rain or flooding, infected animal urine can get washed into rivers and streams. When people swim or do recreational activities in the water, they may come into contact with the bacteria. You may also come into contact with it in contaminated soil. Second, you might ingest the bacteria by eating or drinking contaminated food. This can also occur if you do not wash your hands before eating. Lastly, the Leptospira bacteria can be breathed in if urine particles become airborne.
What types of animals transmit leptospirosis?
There are several types of animals that may be infected including: cows, pigs, sheep, deer, possums, dogs, horses, cats, rats, and mice. Farmers, gardeners, veterinarians, and people doing recreational water activities may be at higher risk for contracting leptospirosis.
What are the symptoms of leptospirosis?
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Coughing
- Sore Throat
- Flu-like symptoms– fever, headache, chills, muscle aches
A small percentage of people that get leptospirosis develop severe symptoms. Although rare, the disease can be fatal in some cases. Serious symptoms include:
- Kidney and liver failure
- Heart disease
- Meningitis
- Bleeding
- Jaundice
- Difficulty breathing
How can rodent control help prevent leptospirosis?
Rats and mice are big carriers of the bacteria, so keeping them away from your home and family is important. If they live in or around your home, their urine may contaminate the soil, air, and other places where they live and travel. If you are having trouble with rodents, arrange for pest control Sunshine Coast. The experienced technicians at Radar Pest Control can help get rid of the rodents, find and seal their possible entrances, and teach you how to prevent them in the future. If rodent nest clean up is necessary, it should be handled by a professional or done wearing protective gear like a face mask and gloves.
Although leptospirosis is fairly rare, you don’t want to take a chance with the lives of you or your loved ones. Professional rodent control can help prevent this dangerous disease from spreading. Contact Radar Pest Control today to schedule your Sunshine Coast pest control.