What Types Of Diseases Do Mice Carry?

Rodents are pretty prolific. Across the globe there are around 2,200 species and they can be found on every continent (Antarctica is the only exception). They can live in many different habitats and they can reproduce quickly and in high numbers. Some of them, especially mice and rats, have adjusted their way of life to the human environment. In the last few decades, they have become one of the most common pest animals in urban areas. Of course, mice carry many different microorganisms that cause diseases in humans. In this article, we will highlight some of the diseases that people can develop when they are in contact with mice. Bear in mind that these diseases are very rare but it’s best to be warned about them.

Salmonellosis

Many mice carry Salmonella bacteria and this bacteria causes problems in pets and humans. The bacteria is transmitted via water or food contaminated with mice droppings. Abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea are some of the most common symptoms of Salmonella which occur after 12 to 72 hours. In rare cases, Salmonella bacteria can lead to an extreme infection known as typhoid fever.

Weil’s disease

Weil’s disease is a specific form of Leptospirosis. This disease leads to failure of many different organs, internal bleeding and in some cases – death. The symptoms of this disease carried by mice include coughing up blood, jaundice, seizures, vomiting, chest pain and swollen hands, feet and/or ankles.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a serious infection that is triggered by Leptospira bacteria. It comes from the urine of infected mice even though dogs, pigs, and cattle can get infected too. This disease is typical for subtropical and tropical regions. Diarrhea, red eyes, vomiting, headaches, muscle pain, and chills are common symptoms of Leptospirosis.

Rat-bite fever

As the name suggests, this disease is caused by rat/mice bite. It is triggered by two different kinds of bacteria – Spirillum minus and Streptobacillus moniliformin. Infected mice have it in their urine, faeces and eye, mouth and nose secretions. The fever caused by Streptobacillus leads to rash, joint pain, headache, vomiting, and fever. The one caused by Spirillum causes ulcers, repeated fever, and swelling. Large infestations of mice can be dangerous so we urge you to get in touch if you’re experiencing problems.  

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