Rats tend to inhabit areas with human populations, particularly in places where there are efficient sewer systems. With their strong front teeth, they can gnaw on materials like wood, aluminum and concrete. Although they do not interact well with humans, wild rats have been known to bite when they feel threatened or are fed by hand.
In addition, when searching for sustenance, these nocturnal animals may bite sleeping individuals. Usually the victims end up being children and babies, on uncovered body parts such as the face, fingers, hands, and toes.
Rat bites are rarely serious and can be treated by cleaning the wound and bandaging it. However, 2% of rat bites can be severe as they can transfer diseases such as leptospirosis. Rat-bite fever is also a common disease associated with these bites. The number of reported cases for rat bites is low, but this could be because many people do not report it.
Do Rats Really Attack You?
Rats usually try to run away when they feel intimidated. On the other hand, a cornered rat can become aggressive and attack humans without any hesitation when it feels threatened. Rats, in general, are scared of humans except for those that are pets. However, if they feel cornered or threatened, wild rats may resort to attacking humans without any second thoughts.
Wondering if rats can carry rabies? Check out our blog “Do Rats Carry Rabies?”.
The black rat, for instance, can jump 70cm high in the air, and leap onto your face after climbing on walls. If cornered, the black rat will make a high-pitched noise and will try to scratch and sink its teeth into your skin.
Dangers & Symptoms of Rat Bites
Being bitten by rats can cause more than just momentary pain. It can trigger serious health concerns that extend beyond the initial redness and swelling around the affected area. If an infection takes hold, the wound may fill with pus and begin to weep.
However, the worries do not end here, as some bacteria carried by rats can lead to more severe conditions. One such as Streptobacillary Rat Bite Fever and Spirillary Rat Bite Fever.
Let’s delve deeper into these potential health risks.
Streptobacillary Rat Bite Fever, caused by the bacterium Streptobacillus moniliformis, is a systemic illness. The symptoms of Rat Bite Fever include muscle aches, vomiting, joint pain, headaches, fever, and rash. These symptoms typically manifest 3-10 days after a rat bite infection. Left untreated, it carries a mortality rate of 10%, highlighting the importance of prompt medical attention following a rat bite.
According to a 2007 study by the American Society for Microbiology, over 2 million animal bites occur each year in the United States, with rats responsible for about 1% of them. The study further reveals that historically, children under five years old living in impoverished conditions were the typical victims of rat bite fever. However, with the rise in popularity of rats as pets and study animals, the demographics of potential rat bite victims have broadened. Now bites are encompassing children, pet store workers, and laboratory technicians.
It’s also essential to note that the report states that the infection rate after a rat bite is approximately 10%. Consequently, the mortality rate of untreated rat bite fever is roughly 13%. While these figures might seem alarming, it’s crucial to remember that early detection and treatment drastically improve outcomes.
On the other hand, their is Spirillary Rat Bite Fever. Infected individuals may experience recurrent fever, swelling, an ulcer at the bite site, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms typically arise one to three weeks after the rat bite incident.
Contrary to popular belief, rats and mice are rarely carriers of rabies. Therefore, there is no evidence suggesting that their bites can transmit this disease to humans.
Despite the low risk of rabies, it is critical that anyone bitten by an animal seek immediate medical attention. Remember, the best defense against complications from a rat bite is prompt professional care.
Preventing Rat Bites
To ensure the safety of yourself and your family from rat bites, it is vital to swiftly eliminate any rat infestations. This can be achieved by seeking the help of rat removal experts such as On Demand Pest Control.
To prevent rat bites, do the following:
- Avoid getting too close to wild rats and Never attempt to feed or grab them
- Prevent rats from infesting garbage dumps by tightly sealing trash cans and dustbins
- Store food in a container that is tightly sealed
Maintaining a pest-free home begins by ensuring that potential entry points are well sealed. Look out for any holes or cracks that could serve as an invitation to these unwanted guests. However, you don’t need to shoulder this task alone.
Contact On Demand Pest Control for a free inspection of your home. Our team of experts will carefully examine your property, paying special attention to frequently overlooked areas such as attics and crawlspaces. Pests love to inhabit these dark, secluded spaces in your home.
With our free inspection, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that trained experts have meticulously examined your home for any signs of potential pest problems. So, instead of devoting your valuable time hunting for cracks and holes, leave it to us at On Demand Pest Control. We are just a call away, ready to provide you with a comprehensive, stress-free inspection.
