Can Fleas From Rats and Mice Make You Sick?

 

A flea may look like nothing more than a tiny nuisance, but things can become more concerning when fleas are coming from mice or rats. Some rodent fleas can spread diseases, including bubonic plague. Although plague is very rare today, keeping rodents and fleas out of your home is still important. Pest Control Sutherland Shire can help homeowners deal with these problems before they become harder to manage.

Can Fleas From Mice and Rats Make You Sick?

They can, although it does not mean every flea is dangerous.

Most of the time, a flea bite is simply annoying. You might see a little red patch that is itchy and usually does not last more than a few days.

The bigger concern is where the flea came from. Fleas that live on rats or mice can sometimes acquire disease-causing bacteria and transmit it in their bite.

So, if you suddenly start finding fleas around the house, it is worth checking whether rodents might be nearby.

What Can Rodent Fleas Spread?

The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to rats and fleas is the plague.

The bacterium called Yersinia pestis is the one that gives rise to the plague, and the mouth of the flea serves as the means of transmitting the bacterium.

Aside from that, there are many other flea-related diseases that depend on the type and species of flea and the geographical location.

Fortunately, not all fleas carry diseases, so severe infections are very rare in many areas of the world.

Nevertheless, the issue of infestation is definitely something to watch carefully, especially in case one discovers any signs of a rodent presence in the premises.

What Is Bubonic Plague?

Bubonic plague is an infection caused by Yersinia pestis and may also be characterized by painful and swollen lymph nodes, and some additional symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and weakness.

The plague sounds scary due to its history; however, it has very little in common with the huge outbreaks of the plague described in textbooks.

Is the Bubonic Plague a Hazardious Disease Nowadays?

The answer is “yes”, however, it is extremely uncommon.

The bacteria responsible for the plague is still found in the wild animals in certain regions of the world. As a result, the disease is not completely gone.

But, the danger to the general public is not great. Better hygiene, pest control, sanitation, and modern medical treatment have all helped make plague uncommon.

How Do Fleas Get Into Your House?

This is where rats and mice can become a real headache.

A rodent can carry fleas in its fur without you ever seeing the animal. If it gets into your roof space, garage, wall cavity, shed, or another part of the house, fleas can come along with it.

Once inside, fleas can hide in places such as carpets, bedding, furniture, cracks, and other quiet areas.

Although you may have successfully removed rodents, don’t be surprised when you still see fleas in your home. Fleas can stay in your surroundings long after rodents are gone.

What Can Be Done Upon Discovery of Fleas?

First of all, do not suppose that fleas appeared there magically.

You should check around your house for any clues indicating the presence of mice or rats. The signs may be droppings, gnawing sounds, damage to food containers, and nesting materials.

It also helps to keep food stored properly, clean up crumbs, empty rubbish regularly, and reduce clutter where rodents could hide.

Most importantly, try to work out how the rodents are getting inside. A tiny gap around a door, roof, pipe, or wall can be enough.

Does Killing the Fleas Solve the Problem?

Not always.

This is one of the things homeowners often overlook. You can treat the fleas you can see, but if there is still a rodent living somewhere in or around the property, new fleas may keep appearing.

That is why it makes sense to deal with both parts of the problem — the rodents and the fleas.

Getting rid of the source is usually much more effective than constantly treating the symptoms.

When Should You Get Help?

Finding one flea does not necessarily mean you have a serious infestation.

However, if there is a recurring problem with fleas or the constant biting, as well as signs of presence of the mice or rats, you would do well to seek professional advice about the fled issues.

Pest control experts can help look out for rodent infestations at the location in addition to finding out flea activities that may have escaped notice for a long while.

In Conclusion

Fleas though small may turn out to become major problems if they are associated with mice or rats.

The good news is that bubonic plague is rare today, and it can be treated when diagnosed early. For homeowners, the more immediate concern is usually dealing with the rodents and stopping fleas from becoming established inside the house.

If you notice fleas along with signs of mice or rats, don't ignore it. Finding and fixing the problem early is usually much easier than dealing with a full infestation later.