Raccoons are common animals that can be found in many areas, both in the wild and in urban settings. While they may look cute and harmless, raccoons can carry several diseases that pose a risk to humans and pets. Knowing about these diseases and understanding the importance of raccoon control can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Common Diseases Carried by Raccoons
Rabies
One of the most well-known diseases that raccoons can carry is rabies. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is usually spread through bites or scratches from an infected animal. Symptoms in humans can include fever, headache, and confusion, eventually leading to more severe symptoms like paralysis and death if not treated promptly.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is another disease that raccoons can carry. This bacterial infection can be spread through the urine of infected animals, contaminating water or soil. Humans can get infected through direct contact with contaminated water or soil, or through cuts and abrasions on the skin. Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, muscle pain, and jaundice. In severe cases, it can cause kidney damage, meningitis, or liver failure.
Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis)
Raccoon roundworm is a parasitic infection caused by a type of roundworm that lives in the intestines of raccoons. Humans can become infected by accidentally ingesting the eggs of the roundworm, which can be found in raccoon feces. The larvae can migrate through the body, causing serious health issues, including brain damage, blindness, and even death.
Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacteria that can be found in raccoon feces. Humans can become infected by coming into contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In some cases, the infection can be severe and require hospitalization.
The Importance of Raccoon Control
Preventing Disease Spread
Raccoon control is crucial to prevent the spread of these diseases. By keeping raccoons away from your home and property, you reduce the risk of coming into contact with the pathogens they carry. This includes securing garbage cans, closing off entry points to your home, and not leaving pet food outside.
Protecting Pets
Pets are also at risk of contracting diseases from raccoons. Ensuring that raccoons do not come into contact with your pets can help keep them healthy. This means supervising pets when they are outside and making sure their living areas are clean and secure.
Human Safety
Raccoons can be aggressive, especially when they feel threatened. By practicing raccoon control methods, you can minimize the chances of encounters with these animals, thus protecting yourself and your family from potential attacks and the diseases raccoons may carry.
Effective Raccoon Control Methods
Secure Your Home
Make sure that all entry points to your home, such as chimneys, attic vents, and crawl spaces, are securely closed off. Repair any holes or gaps in the walls and roofs to prevent raccoons from entering.
Manage Food Sources
Raccoons are attracted to food sources, so it is essential to manage your garbage and pet food properly. Use raccoon-proof garbage cans and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight.
Professional Help
If you have a raccoon problem that you cannot manage on your own, consider seeking professional help. Pest control experts can safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property and advise on how to prevent future issues.
Safeguarding Your Sanctuary: Innovative Strategies for Raccoon Deterrence
Raccoons carry diseases that can harm humans and pets. To protect your health, implement effective raccoon control by securing your home, managing food sources, and getting professional help when needed. This reduces the risk of raccoon-related diseases. Keeping racoons away is essential for a healthy, safe environment for your family.
Facing raccoons or other pests? Contact E&G Exterminators without delay. Our skilled team expertly manages all pest and wildlife concerns, ensuring your home remains safe and free from raccoons. Reach out to us or visit our website to book a consultation and keep your home secure and cozy.
