What do house mice carry? - briefly
House mice transport a variety of harmful agents, including bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Leptospira), viruses (e.g., Hantavirus), parasites (e.g., fleas, mites), and allergens that contaminate food and surfaces. Their presence also facilitates the spread of disease‑causing microorganisms throughout indoor environments.
What do house mice carry? - in detail
House mice are recognized as efficient vectors of a wide range of biological agents and contaminants that affect human health, livestock, and stored products.
The microorganisms they transport include:
- Bacteria: Salmonella enterica, Leptospira interrogans, Streptobacillus moniliformis, Campylobacter jejuni, and Clostridium perfringens.
- Viruses: Hantavirus (including Seoul and Dobrava strains), Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), and Tick-borne encephalitis virus.
- Fungi: Aspergillus spp. and Candida spp., which can proliferate on contaminated foodstuffs.
- Protozoa: Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp., occasionally detected in mouse feces.
External and internal parasites are also associated with these rodents:
- Ectoparasites: Fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis), mites (Myobia musculi), and lice (Polyplax serrata), each capable of transmitting additional pathogens.
- Endoparasites: Helminths such as Hymenolepis nana and Capillaria spp., as well as nematodes like Syphacia muris.
Beyond living organisms, house mice introduce non‑biological hazards:
- Allergenic particles: Urine, feces, dander, and hair contain proteins that provoke allergic reactions and asthma.
- Chemical contaminants: Residues of rodenticides, cleaning agents, and heavy metals may be deposited on surfaces and food.
- Physical debris: Gnawed packaging, nesting material, and droppings compromise the integrity of stored commodities.
These carriers collectively increase the risk of disease outbreaks, food spoilage, and occupational health problems in residential, commercial, and agricultural environments. Effective control measures must address both the rodents themselves and the spectrum of agents they transport.