Rats and Disease in Miami and South Florida
Rats carry germs, and Miami's heat, rain and flooding add a few local wrinkles. This page sticks to what health agencies and the University of Florida have said. For anything about your own health, talk to a doctor.
Leptospirosis and Floodwater
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, rats among them. The Florida Department of Health says people catch it through contact with water, soil or plants contaminated with that urine, and that the risk often rises after hurricanes, flooding and heavy rain. Yard work and outdoor cleanup are on its list of higher-risk activities. Wear gloves and boots after a storm, and wash up afterward.
Rat Lungworm and Snails
Rat lungworm is a parasite that lives in rats and passes through snails and slugs. In 2012, state agriculture scientists confirmed it in giant African land snails collected in Miami-Dade County during the eradication program, and residents were told not to handle the snails. A 2017 University of Florida study later found the parasite in rats and snails in several Florida counties.
Cleaning Up Droppings Safely
Don't sweep or vacuum dry droppings. Air the area out, put on rubber gloves and a mask, wet the droppings and nest material with a bleach solution or disinfectant, let it soak, then wipe it up with paper towels and bag it. Wash your hands well when you're done. For a whole attic, see attic cleanup.
Noises in the ceiling or chewed fruit in the yard? One call puts you through to a licensed provider who works your part of Miami-Dade.
Kids and Pets
Keep children and pets away from droppings, nests and dead rats until they're cleaned up. Dogs can get leptospirosis too, and University of Florida veterinarians have reported cases in Florida dogs.
Questions From Callers
Should I see a doctor after finding droppings?
If you feel sick after contact with rodents or floodwater, call your doctor and mention the exposure.