Lastly, and the most severe disease, is called Hantavirus. There are two strains of this, HPS (in the Americas) and HFRS (in Europe and Asia). Rodent infestations in houses are the number one cause of catching this disease. The signs that you may have this virus are extreme muscle aches, especially in large muscles like the back, hips, thighs, and even shoulders. Fevers, chills, nausea, and vomiting can also occur. 4-10 days after an initial phase of early symptoms, late symptoms will develop and can include coughing or shortness of breath. This can feel like small suffocation, as fluid slowly enters the lungs. This is meant as a recovery mechanism, from the body, but this is similar to pneumonia. This may be when it gets too late, so the second you think you’ve come into contact with rat waste, please seek immediate medical attention. You are better safe than sorry when it comes to all of these diseases.

So, if you have recently had a rat infestation, please take extreme precautions. You should wear a mask, gloves, long-sleeves, and some goggles/eye protection wear to stop any transmission. If you feel uncomfortable, you should contact professional wildlife handlers to remove your infestation and to give advice. Lastly, if you think you bear any of the symptoms from these diseases, seek medical attention, and the sooner the better.