It has never been a good idea to handle wild rodents.  Even if you can befriend them and get past the initial yuck factor, they are unpredictable and known to carry diseases that are harmful to humans.

Rodents live a simple life and need only three things to survive and prosper…food, water and shelter.  This can easily be found in homes, schools, pet stores, grocery stores and restaurants.  Some grocery stores and restaurants have been taken to task lately for being over run with vermin.   The good news is that when a complaint is launched; local health department officials are usually quick to respond and react accordingly.

The most common pathogens that rats and mice transmit are Salmonella, Campylobacter and even E. Coli.  Over the past few years various universities have also done studies showing that pregnant woman are in danger of being infected with the Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV).  This infectious agent is carried by house mice and other rodents.  The virus can cause severe brain damage in a fetus.  Pregnant women should never handle rodents, live or dead or their droppings or bedding.

If rats or mice are invading your personal space, contact a pest control specialist who will not only get rid of the pests, but also help find where they are coming from so you can keep them out for good!