
10. Hantavirus
This viral disease is rare but deadly. The animals that transmit the virus are rodents. There is a sharp increase in rodents encroaching on human habitats as the cold months of winter loom. Rats and mice seek to make their homes indoors. These rodents pass the virus on through their urine, saliva, and feces.
Coming into physical contact with these excretions can transmit the virus. It can also be transmitted through the air. While sweeping up rodent feces, the virus can be aerosolized and cause an infection when breathed in. Hantavirus causes a weakening in the structure of the blood vessel walls. This can lead to internal bleeding and hemorrhaging. Unfortunately, hantavirus isn’t exclusive to wild rodents. There have been cases where pet rodent owners contracted the disease. Take precautions such as wearing gloves and a mask when cleaning rodent cages. Take active measures to prevent rodents from moving into the home.