What Diseases Do Prairie Dogs Carry?
Prairie dogs can be carriers of sylvatic plague, a potentially fatal disease spread to wild rodents by infected parasites. It’s possible for people catch this illness through contact with either prairie dogs or their fleas. Symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Fever
Tularemia is another disease prairie dogs carry. Ticks and biting flies spread this sickness after biting an infected animal. Human symptoms are similar to the flu.
Like plague, it can be deadly if left untreated. Common reactions include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Head or body aches
Effects of Prairie Dog Diseases
These illnesses can have a terrible impact on both local wildlife and people.
To limit the effects and spread of prairie dog diseases, avoid all contact with wild rodents, dead or alive. The experts at Critter Control are available to help homeowners deal with prairie dog infestations.