Mice are tiny and somewhat cute little critters that are common to us. Tiny they may be, mice are dangerous and strike fear in many. However, they are not an aggressive bunch. A mouse bites when it is cornered and feels threatened. Given the diminutive size of mice, is there a reason to be afraid of a mouse bite?

What a Mouse Bite Feels Like

Mouse bites in humans are rare. As mentioned above, a mouse bite occurs when the mouse is cornered and feels threatened. It happens mostly when we try to catch mice by hand or if they are mishandled. Mouse bites are small. It’s a small puncture wound that leaves a sharp pinching sensation.  Because of its sharp teeth, a mouse bite can easily draw blood. In most cases, a mouse bite is just an annoyance and may leave swelling and redness. However, there are cases wherein a mouse bite can lead to life-threatening circumstances.

Are Mouse Bites Dangerous?

Yes, mouse bites are potentially dangerous. We say potentially because not all mouse bites can bring danger to your health. Still, there are plenty of cases wherein a single mouse bite can lead to serious health complications. It is because mice can carry bacteria and viruses, which can debilitate your body in a single bite.

A mouse bite can cause an allergic reaction. It can cause rashes, swelling, and fever. A serious allergic reaction can lead to hospitalization or worse, death. A mouse bite can also lead to Rat-bite fever. Rat-bite fever is a bacterial infection that causes chills, diarrhea, fever, headache, muscle aches, and vomiting. In some cases, it leads to fatality when not treated.

A mouse bite can also transmit Hantavirus. Hantavirus is a lethal disease. Field mice and deer mice are some of the common mice species that spread this disease. Hantavirus is a relatively rare disease but can be deadly when not treated. The symptoms include chills, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting.

Another potential danger due to a mouse bite is Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis or LCM. House mice are the most common carriers of this disease. It is a severe human illness that causes appetite loss, fever, headache, necrosis, unwellness, and vomiting. In more serious cases, it can cause meningitis.

What to Do if A Mouse Bits You?

As soon as a mouse bites you, you need to immediately clean the wound with soap and water. You can also use antibiotic creams or antiseptics to clean the wound.  Naturally, you need to seek medical attention after. Although not all mice can transmit diseases via their bites, it’s best to certain to avoid serious problems.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a mouse bite is still dangerous. If a mouse bites you, you need to address it properly to ensure your overall health. To ensure that a mouse won’t bite you again, seek the aid of a professional pest control service. A professional pest control service will help ensure that no mice will threaten you again.