How are mice dangerous in the apartment? - briefly
Mice contaminate food and surfaces with urine, droppings, and pathogens, increasing the risk of diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus. Their gnawing can damage wiring, insulation, and structural components, creating fire hazards and costly repairs.
How are mice dangerous in the apartment? - in detail
Mice in a residential setting present several serious threats.
- Disease vectors: They carry pathogens such as Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Leptospira, which can be transferred to humans through droppings, urine, or bites. Inhalation of aerosolized particles from contaminated bedding can cause respiratory infections.
- Food contamination: Gnawing and foraging behavior leads to direct contact with stored food, resulting in spoilage and the spread of bacteria. Their feces and urine introduce toxins that render food unsafe for consumption.
- Structural damage: Constant gnawing weakens wooden beams, insulation, and electrical wiring. Damaged wiring increases the likelihood of short circuits and electrical fires.
- Fire hazard: Chewed insulation and exposed wires can spark, while nests built from flammable materials provide fuel for potential fires.
- Allergic reactions: Shed skin and dander trigger asthma and allergic responses in sensitive individuals, especially children and the elderly.
Beyond health and safety concerns, mouse infestations can cause significant economic loss. Repairing chewed infrastructure, replacing contaminated food supplies, and employing professional pest control services generate measurable expenses. Prompt detection and comprehensive mitigation—sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and using traps or baits—are essential to protect occupants and preserve the integrity of the living environment.