Even the most squeamish among us can agree that rats are one of the most despised creatures on Earth. Unfortunately, they’re also a major problem in many homes and business establishments. But why should we be so concerned about these furry pests? It turns out that they’re capable of causing a lot more harm than you might think. With Los Angeles ranking in Orkin’s list of top 5 rat-infested cities in the nation, let’s take a look at some of the health hazards created by rats. 

Diseases Spread by Rodents 

Rats and mice are known to spread over 35 diseases, many of which can be quite severe if left untreated. These range from common illnesses like salmonella to serious ailments such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Another common disease spread by rodents is leptospirosis, which can cause liver damage, kidney failure and even death. 

Allergies and Asthma 

Rodents are also known to trigger allergies and asthma attacks in humans. This is due to a protein found in their urine, saliva and dander that irritates respiratory systems and promotes inflammation. In addition to triggering an allergic reaction, rat droppings may also carry spores that can lead to fungal infections like histoplasmosis or cryptococcosis. 

Structural Damage 

Not only do rats pose a threat to your health, but they can also cause serious structural damage if left unchecked. Rats have sharp teeth designed for gnawing through wood, insulation and other materials—and they won’t hesitate to do so if it means getting access to food or shelter inside your home or business establishment. This can quickly become costly as you may need to repair walls or floors damaged by the rodents’ chewing habits. 

View the list of the top 25 rattiest cities in 2022 on our sister site, The Leader News, here.

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