Rats, a true health risk
A report from the Vancouver Rat Project states that rats carry more disease-causing bacteria than was previously known. These bacteria include E coli, the super bug MRSA and a potentially fatal fever called leptospirosis. Rat bites and scratches can result in disease and rat-bite fever. Rat urine is responsible for the spread of leptospirosis, which can result in liver and kidney damage. It can also be contracted through handling or inhalation of the dander from the feces. Complications include renal and liver failure, as well as cardiovascular problems. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV), a viral infectious disease, is transmitted through the saliva and urine of rats. Effected people experience long-term effects of lymphocytic choriomeningitis, while others experience only temporary discomfort. There have been no known cases of rat-transmitted sickness in Metro Vancouver.
http://www.delta-optimist.com/opinion/blogs/deltabc-1.983313/blog-rodents-a-true-health-risk-1.2161319
