What This Blog Covers
In this article, you’ll learn:
- Which rodent-borne diseases are found in Texas and Oklahoma
- How rodents spread illness in homes and commercial spaces
- Simple but effective rodent prevention steps you can take
- When it’s time to call for professional rodent control
Rodent-Borne Diseases in Texas and Oklahoma
Salmonella and E. coli
If you’ve ever had food poisoning, you know how miserable it can be. Rodents can contaminate food, food prep surfaces, and water sources with bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
While many people recover with rest and fluids, severe cases can require medical care, particularly for children, older adults, or individuals with compromised immune systems. Homes, restaurants, warehouses, and other commercial facilities are especially vulnerable when rodents gain access to food storage or preparation areas.
Hantavirus
Hantavirus is one of the more serious rodent-borne illnesses. People can become infected by inhaling airborne particles from rodent droppings, urine, or disturbed nesting materials—often during cleaning or renovation projects.
Early symptoms can be flu-like, making it easy to dismiss them at first. However, hantavirus can become severe quickly, making safe cleanup practices and professional rodent control extremely important.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that spreads through water or surfaces contaminated with rodent urine. While rare, it can cause serious complications such as kidney or liver damage if not treated promptly.
People who work outdoors, manage properties, or handle animals may face higher exposure risks, making rodent prevention especially important for farms, warehouses, and commercial properties.
Rat Bite Fever
As the name suggests, rat bite fever is spread through rodent bites or scratches, or through contact with contaminated surfaces. Early symptoms often resemble the flu, but untreated cases can lead to joint swelling, skin rashes, and more serious conditions like heart or nervous system infections.
Prompt medical care is key, but preventing rodent activity in the first place is the best defense.
How to Avoid Rodent-Borne Diseases
The most effective way to prevent rodent-borne diseases is simple: keep mice and rats out of your home or business. That takes a combination of good sanitation, property maintenance, and professional guidance.
At The Pied Piper, we’ve helped protect homes and commercial properties from rodents for years. Here are some proven rodent prevention tips we recommend:
Make Your Yard Less Inviting
- Keep grass trimmed and landscaping well-maintained
- Cut back bushes and tree branches near structures
- Remove clutter, debris, and unused materials
- Store firewood and garbage bins away from buildings
- Clean out gutters and reduce standing water
- Eliminate outdoor food sources
Seal Up Entry Points
- Fill cracks in the foundation
- Repair gaps around windows and doors
- Cover vents and chimneys with proper screening
- Seal openings around utility lines and pipes
Keep the Interior Unwelcoming
- Store food in sealed, rodent-proof containers
- Clean dishes, counters, floors, and sinks regularly
- Reduce clutter in storage areas
- Address moisture issues and leaks promptly
What to Do If Rodents Get Into Your Home or Business
Once rodents are inside, DIY solutions often fall short. Mouse traps and other store-bought products may catch a few rodents, but they rarely address the full infestation or the entry points that allowed rodents to enter in the first place. That leaves you dealing with an ongoing problem and continued health risks.
Professional rodent control is the most effective solution.
The Pied Piper offers comprehensive rodent control services designed to eliminate infestations and prevent future problems completely. We offer customized solutions for both home pest control and commercial pest control, helping protect families, employees, and customers alike.
If you’ve noticed signs of rodents or want to stay ahead of the problem, contact your nearest The Pied Piper branch today. We’re here to help keep your property rodent-free.
This blog was originally published on November 10, 2017, and has been updated to reflect the most current information.
