Ranking The Rattiest Cities Of 2022

When you think of rats, what comes to mind? For many people, it’s those little furry creatures from the Tom and Jerry cartoons. But in reality, rats are much more than that—they can be a serious health hazard. Whether they are living in your home or simply scurrying around outside, rats can cause illness and spread diseases. With New York City coming in second on the list of the nation’s top rattiest cities, let’s dive into why this is the case. 

Diseases Spread by Rats 

One of the main ways that rats spread disease is through their droppings and urine. When these substances come into contact with humans, they can cause serious illnesses like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). This virus can cause severe respiratory infection and even death in some cases. In addition to HPS, rat droppings have been known to carry other dangerous bacteria like salmonella and E. coli which can also lead to serious illnesses if ingested or inhaled. 

Another way that rats spread disease is by biting humans and other animals. They have sharp incisors that can easily puncture skin and transmit harmful viruses such as rabies which can be fatal if not treated quickly enough. Rats may also carry fleas and ticks which can spread additional parasites and infectious bacteria throughout a home or business environment. 

Preventative Measures for Homeowners 

The best way to prevent health hazards caused by rats is to take preventative measures before an infestation occurs in the first place. This includes sealing any cracks or holes around windows and doors as well as keeping food stored inside containers rather than leaving it out on counters or floors. It’s also important to regularly clean areas where rats may live such as attics, basements, crawl spaces, garages, sheds, etc., as these are prime locations for them to hide and breed. If an infestation does occur, it’s best to call a professional pest control company immediately so they can safely remove the rodents from your home without putting anyone at risk of harm. 

View the list of the top 25 rattiest cities in 2022 on our sister site, The Leader News, here.

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