rodentborne

Rodentborne refers to diseases or pathogens that are transmitted to humans or other animals via rodents, particularly species in the order Rodentia. The term encompasses a range of agents, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and includes transmissions that occur through direct contact with rodents, contact with rodent tissues or secretions, inhalation of dust contaminated with rodent excreta or urine, and via ectoparasites such as fleas, mites, or ticks that infest rodents. Not all infections carried by rodents are rodentborne in the sense of human exposure, and some diseases require intermediate vectors or environmental exposure to affect people.

Prominent rodentborne diseases include hantaviruses, transmitted to humans through contact with or inhalation of dust from the excreta of infected rodents, potentially causing hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira bacteria, is commonly linked to contaminated water or soil and can be carried by rodents, with urban and flood-prone settings often at higher risk. Rat-bite fever results from bites or scratches of rats or ingestion of contaminated food, caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis or Spirillum minus. Tularemia has rodents as part of its reservoir system in some regions and can be acquired via handling infected animals or through vectors and contaminated water.

Prevention centers on reducing rodent populations and limiting contact with rodents and their secretions. Measures include sanitation, proper food storage, sealing entry points to buildings, safe cleanup of droppings, use of protective equipment, and prompt management of infestations. Public health surveillance and, where appropriate, vaccination of animals can help reduce risk. Understanding local rodent ecology supports targeted control and helps prevent spillover events, especially in urbanizing or flood-prone areas.