Why are rats dangerous for pregnant women? - briefly
Rats may transmit Listeria monocytogenes, hantavirus, and other pathogens that can cause severe maternal infection, fetal loss, or developmental complications. Implementing rigorous sanitation and rodent‑control measures eliminates the primary source of these risks.
Why are rats dangerous for pregnant women? - in detail
Rats serve as reservoirs for a range of pathogens that can cause severe complications during pregnancy. Their close proximity to human habitats increases the likelihood of exposure to infectious agents and toxic substances.
Key hazards include:
- Leptospira interrogans – bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated urine. In pregnant individuals, it may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal infection.
- Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) – virus carried by rodents. Maternal infection can result in fetal malformations, hydrocephalus, or intrauterine death.
- Hantavirus – inhalation of aerosolized rodent droppings may cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, jeopardizing maternal health and fetal viability.
- Salmonella spp. – foodborne bacteria spread by rodent contamination of kitchen surfaces. Gastroenteritis can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, raising the risk of preterm labor.
- Toxoplasma gondii – although cats are the primary host, rats act as intermediate hosts. Consumption of undercooked rat meat or cross‑contamination can transmit the parasite, potentially leading to congenital toxoplasmosis with ocular and neurological damage.
- Chemical toxins – rodent control products (anticoagulant rodenticides) may be inadvertently ingested or handled, causing coagulopathy and placental hemorrhage.
Additional concerns arise from allergic reactions to rodent dander and bites, which can trigger systemic inflammation detrimental to pregnancy. Preventive measures involve sealing entry points, maintaining strict food storage standards, employing integrated pest management, and avoiding direct contact with rodent carcasses or droppings. Prompt medical evaluation after any suspected exposure is essential to mitigate adverse outcomes for both mother and fetus.