3 Health Risks That Come With Having Racoons In Your Attic

If you have ever attempted removing a raccoon from your home, you know that it is one of the most challenging pest control tasks. The little animals know how to access a home through openings on the roof, gutters, and basements. They will then set up their nests in the basement, under the floorboards, or in the attic. Most people will fear removing raccoons from their homes because of a possible attack. However, professional exterminators know how to handle them without hurting everyone involved. You should call them for extermination because they can eliminate the following health risks associated with rodents. 

Salmonella Infections

The first thing you might notice if you have raccoons in your home are droppings. Often, these droppings contain salmonella, a bacteria that is also common when you consume undercooked poultry products. When cleaning your home, you can also get the bacteria from coming into contact with the raccoon droppings. Symptoms of the infection include running a high fever, pain in the abdomen, severe diarrhea, and a loss of appetite. If not treated on time, the condition can be life-threatening, so you must speak to an exterminator to remove the raccoons and protect your family from salmonella.

Rabies

Most people will likely assume a canine attack when you mention rabies. However, raccoons also carry rabies, and it is one of the main reasons you should never try to attack or remove it because a raccoon can fight back. If the animal bites or scratches you, you could get a rabies infection. The disease is expensive to treat and can lead to serious health complications. If not treated in time, rabies can be fatal. It is advisable to avoid playing with or feeding wild animals in or around your home. Secondly, you should keep all your trash safely locked as this cuts off their food source and redirects them elsewhere. Most importantly, allow a professional exterminator to handle them. 

Roundworms from Racoons

The pests can also infect you and your family with roundworms. The roundworm eggs are present in droppings that you might ingest if you touch feces when cleaning your gutters, attic, or basement. Some of the common signs of roundworm infection include high fever, severe headache, and in extreme cases, kidney failure.  

These are just a few of the many diseases you might contract by ignoring a raccoon problem in your home. Speak to a residential pest control service immediately if you notice signs of their presence, such as droppings. They will help you remove the animal in a fast and efficient manner.