At least one person in the world dies every day as a result of rabies. This lethal viral disease is carried by skunks, bats, and raccoons. However, raccoons are one of the most widespread carriers of this disease in the U.S. Petting or feeding a rabid raccoon may put you and your entire family at risk of contracting the deadly disease.
Rats in your home can be a nuisance, but they are often much more than that. Rat infestations can lead to other serious problems, such as disease or destruction of property. The Center for Disease Control lists numerous diseases carried and transmitted by rats. These include: Leptospirosis, Rat-Bite Fever, Salmonellosis, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome, Lassa Fever, and even Plague! Many people think Plague was wiped out long ago, but a number of cases still occur in this country each year. Rat removal is essential for good hygiene.