3 Gopher-Transmitted Diseases You Need To Be Aware Of

LCM

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis, or LCM, is a rodent-borne viral infectious disease caused by the virus LCMV. Symptoms may include fever, headache, stiff neck, drowsiness, confusion, sensory disturbances, and motor abnormalities, such as paralysis. Humans and pets are most often infected by contaminated soil or water. LCM has a mortality rate of 1% with proper medical treatment.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is an infection caused by bacteria called Leptospira that affects both humans and various animals. Gophers spread the Leptospira bacteria in their urine, which allows them to infect people. Humans and pets are most often infected by contaminated soil or water.

Without treatment, Leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.

Hantavirus

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe illness caused by exposure to the droppings or urine of gophers that carry the virus. The chance of being exposed to hantavirus is more significant when people work, play, or live in spaces where rodents are actively living. HPS can be fatal. It has a mortality rate of 38%.

These aren’t the only diseases carried by rodents like gophers. Rabies, Plague, and Tularemia are examples of the extended list of diseases.

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