Rodents are more than just a nuisance—they’re a serious health risk. Mice and rats can carry a variety of diseases that threaten the well-being of your family and pets. Understanding how these pests spread illness and taking preventive measures is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy home.

1. Contaminating Food and Surfaces

Rodents are notorious for scavenging in kitchens and pantries, leaving droppings, urine, and saliva behind. These contaminants can carry harmful bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning and gastrointestinal illnesses. Even small amounts of contamination can make food unsafe for consumption, putting your household at risk.

2. Spreading Airborne Diseases

Rodent droppings and urine can dry and become airborne, creating dust particles that contain pathogens. Inhaling these particles can result in serious respiratory issues, such as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome and Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV). Proper sanitation and rodent control are critical to reducing airborne exposure in your home.

3. Transmitting Parasites

Rodents can carry parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, which may transfer diseases to humans and pets. Fleas, for example, are known carriers of plague and typhus, while ticks can transmit Lyme disease. Controlling rodent populations is key to minimizing the risk of parasite-borne illnesses.

4. Damaging Home Structures and Creating Entry Points

Rodents often gnaw on wires, insulation, and wooden structures. These activities not only damage your home but also create openings for additional pests and wildlife to enter. Damaged wiring can pose fire hazards, while gaps and holes increase the risk of further contamination from rodents and other critters.

5. Preventive Measures to Protect Your Home

Prevention is always better than dealing with an infestation. Here are some steps to reduce the risk of rodent-related diseases:

Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps around doors, windows, vents, and pipes, and seal any openings larger than a quarter-inch.
Maintain Cleanliness: Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills promptly.
Reduce Clutter: Rodents thrive in cluttered areas that provide hiding places, so keep storage areas organized and tidy.
Regular Inspections: Routine inspections of your home’s exterior and interior can help identify early signs of rodent activity.

Protect Your Family with Professional Rodent Control

Rodents are a hidden health threat, and even a small infestation can have serious consequences. Acting quickly is key to keeping your home safe. Professional pest control services provide targeted solutions that effectively eliminate rodents and prevent future invasions.

Don’t let rodents put your family’s health at risk. Contact Kilter Termite and Pest Control at (866) 827-1727 today to schedule a professional inspection and keep your home rodent-free.