Zoonotic Rodent Diseases

rat being held Rodents can make a wonderful addition to your family. As with many animals, rodents often carry many diseases that you should be aware of before adding this critter to your home.

What are some diseases that humans can get from rodents

Rodents may carry many diseases that have the ability to infect humans. Click on the links below to learn more about specific diseases rodents may carry:

Rat bite fever

Rat Bite Fever in California Fact Sheet- California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Rat-bite Fever in the US - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Flea-borne (endemic) typhus

Flea-borne typhus in Los Angeles County - Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH)
Flea-borne typhus in California - CDPH

Hantaviruses (e.g. Seoul virus)

  Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in Los Angeles County - Los Angeles County DPH
  Rodents and Hantavirus - CDPH
  Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in California - CDPH
  Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in the US - CDC
  Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome in the US - CDC
Seoul virus Frequently Asked Questions - CDC

Salmonellosis

Salmonella infections in the US - CDC

Leptospirosis

  Leptospirosis in dogs in Los Angeles County - Los Angeles County DPH
  Leptospirosis in California Fact Sheet - CDPH
  Leptospirosis in the US - CDC

Plague

  Plague in Los Angeles County - Los Angeles County DPH
  Plague in California - CDPH
  Plague in the US - CDC

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM)

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis in the US - CDC

Do's and Don'ts of Rodent Care

Many of these diseases can be spread by handling your pet, your pet’s housing, as well as their feces and urine. Follow these tips to ensure your family stays healthy and safe:

More Information:

Selecting a Pet Rodent - American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Diseases from rodents - CDC

Last updated: June 8, 2017

Veterinary Public Health