1. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

Source: Rodent urine, saliva, and droppings

Transmission: Inhalation of airborne particles containing the virus

Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, dizziness, respiratory distress

Hantavirus can be life-threatening and is commonly found in areas where rodent infestations exist. Preventing rodent nesting and properly sanitizing affected areas are crucial to reducing exposure.

2. Leptospirosis

Source: Rodent urine contaminating water or food

Transmission: Direct contact with infected surfaces, water, or soil

Symptoms: Fever, chills, vomiting, liver/kidney failure in severe cases

Common in flood-prone areas, Leptospirosis can lead to long-term organ damage if untreated.

3. Salmonella

Source: Contaminated food or surfaces exposed to rodent feces

Transmission: Ingestion of bacteria through food or drinks

Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps

Rodents and cockroaches are notorious for spreading Salmonella, making proper food storage and sanitation critical in infestation-prone environments.

4. Rat-Bite Fever

Source: Bites or scratches from infected rodentsTransmission: Direct exposure to infected saliva, urine, or secretionsSymptoms: Fever, rash, muscle pain, joint swelling

While rare, untreated Rat-Bite Fever can result in serious complications like meningitis or sepsis.

5. Tuberculosis (TB)

Source: Airborne transmission from infected individuals or contaminated environments

Transmission: Inhalation of TB bacteria

Symptoms: Persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, fatigue

Rodents and other pests can act as vectors, indirectly contributing to TB transmission in unsanitary conditions.

6. Tularemia

Source: Bites from infected ticks, fleas, or contact with contaminated animal carcasses

Transmission: Skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion

Symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin ulcers

Tularemia, though rare, is highly infectious and can be fatal without treatment.

7. Psittacosis

Source: Infected birds and their droppings

Transmission: Inhalation of bacteria-contaminated particles

Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, pneumonia, difficulty breathing

Bird droppings found in infestations can harbor this dangerous bacterial infection.

8. Rabies

Source: Infected animal bites (commonly bats, raccoons, or rodents)

Transmission: Direct contact with saliva via bites or scratches

Symptoms: Fever, confusion, paralysis, eventual fatality if untreated

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making vaccination and pest control critical preventive measures.

9. Histoplasmosis

Source: Soil contaminated with bat or bird droppings

Transmission: Inhalation of fungal spores

Symptoms: Respiratory distress, fever, chest pain

This fungal infection can cause severe lung disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Preventing Pest-Related Disease Transmission

• Eliminate Food and Water Sources: Properly store food, dispose of garbage, and fix leaky pipes.
• Eliminate Shelter: Rodents and other pests will attempt to move in with you. Don’t let them in by hiring a professional to seal entry points. Rodent-proofing your home or business and blocking access to the structure is key. Integrated Pest Management 
• Regular Sanitation: Hire sanitation professionals to clean areas prone to infestations, including basements, attics, and storage spaces.
• Hire Professional Pest Control Services: BUGCO® Pest Control has highly trained pest specialists serving the Greater Houston Metro Area from Galveston to Conroe, Brookshire to Mont Belvieu. We can provide routine inspections and treatments to prevent infestations before they become a major hazard.

Final Thoughts

The dangers posed by infestations go beyond property damage; they represent a direct threat to human health and safety. Understanding how rodents, insects, and other pests contribute to the spread of deadly diseases underscores the importance of proactive pest control and hygiene measures.

By taking a proactive stance, homeowners and businesses can protect themselves and their communities from these serious public health risks. For more information on getting a quote to clean, sanitize and replace your existing insulation.