Have you ever wondered what diseases you can catch from rats? Although they may look cute and furry, rats harbor a wide range of pathogens that can harm human and animal health. Today, we’ll cover some of the three diseases spread by rats. And, we’ll also discuss the importance of rodent control in Bellevue.
Leptospirosis
First on our list is leptospirosis, a surprisingly common disease seen in both pets and people. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that usually gains entry into humans and pets through the skin or mucous membranes. The bacteria are shed in urine, aka rat urine, and can persist in water, food, and even soil for a while.
According to the CDC, the symptoms associated with a leptospirosis infection can include abdominal pain, fever, muscle aches, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, often referred to as a second phase, leptospirosis can result in acute kidney, liver damage, or meningitis.
Looking for the best pest control services in Bellevue? We at Parker Eco Pest Control are here to provide you with efficient rodent control services. Talk to us today to learn more about rodent control services in Bellevue.
Hantavirus
According to UC Davis Health, Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is relatively rare; between 1980 to 2014, only 54 cases were reported in California.
So, how do you get hantavirus? The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) states that viral particles commonly spread through rodent urine and droppings. However, airborne transmission is also possible! But, this often occurs when urine and droppings are incorporated or ‘stirred up” deeply through nesting materials. For example, rodent-damaged insulation in either an attic or a crawl space may contain large amounts of stirred-up rat urine and feces that could put homeowners at risk of hantavirus. These are some of the many reasons why our team of professional rat exterminators examine and perform attic and crawl-space cleaning services throughout Bellevue.
Lyme Disease
The diseases discussed above generally spread through direct contact with either rodent droppings or urine. On the other hand, Lyme disease is a common bacterial disease that spreads through parasitic vectors—infectious black-legged ticks.
Rats and mice can harbor significant burdens of black-legged ticks on their fur. When these ticks bite pets or people, they tend to cause disease. Symptoms can include fever, erythema migrans (a type of rash), facial palsy, and more. Dogs with Lyme disease tend to show similar symptoms such as joint swelling, lameness, and lethargy. Left untreated, Lyme disease can result in acute nephritis (kidney inflammation) and potentially even acute kidney failure.
How Much Does Rat Pest Control Cost in Bellevue, WA?

Rat control and extermination are dynamic processes that involve a thorough inspection and action plan. Here at Parker Eco Pest Control, we provide honest options designed to eradicate rodents and prevent further establishment.
The process is simple and follows a multi-step approach.
- The initial inspection: We need to conduct a full house inspection to determine the severity of the infestation and the potential entry points of the rodents. The cost of our inspection fee is $99.00, but don’t worry; this is waived off if you purchase the 3-Visit Plan.
- The first two visits: We continue to set and check physical traps to ensure effective rodent control. In addition, our team of professional pest controllers will address problem areas and may choose to install rodent-proof mesh. The home’s exterior, including the crawl space, is further examined for rodent-entry points. If multiple holes (entry points) are present, they are immediately sealed off.
- The third visit: Our team of pest control exterminators is determined to help you and your family address the daunting rodent infestation task! So, we often schedule a third home visit to ensure no new rodent activity and no new access points for rats and mice.
Don’t let rodents get the better of you! Talk to us today to learn more about rodent control in Bellevue, WA