Do Raccoons Carry Diseases? (7 To Watch Out For)

“Raccoons may seem harmless, but do they carry diseases that could harm you and your loved ones?

Learn about the diseases they may carry and how to protect yourself.”

Introduction

Raccoons are common wildlife found in many parts of the United States and Canada.

They are known for their distinctive black and white mask-like markings, as well as their playful and curious nature.

While they may look cute and harmless, raccoons can actually pose a significant health risk to humans and pets. One of the main concerns with raccoons is their ability to carry and transmit diseases.

Seven Diseases And Virus Raccoons Are Known To Carry:

Raccoons Can Carry Rabies

Raccoons are known to carry and spread the rabies virus, which can be fatal to both humans and pets if left untreated.

The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically through a bite or scratch. Symptoms of rabies in humans include fever, headache, muscle weakness, and seizures.

It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have been exposed to rabies.

Raccoons Can Carry Roundworm

Raccoons can also carry a type of roundworm called Baylisascaris procyonis, which can infect humans and pets if the infected raccoon’s feces are ingested.

The roundworm can cause serious neurological damage and even death in severe cases. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

It is important to practice good hygiene and avoid contact with raccoon feces to prevent infection.

Raccoons Can Carry Leptospirosis

This bacterial disease can be spread to humans through contact with infected raccoon urine.

Symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle aches, and can lead to more severe complications such as liver or kidney damage. It is important to avoid contact with raccoon urine and to practice good hygiene to prevent infection.

Raccoons Can Carry Salmonella

Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected raccoons or their feces.

Symptoms of salmonella include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, and can last for several days. In severe cases, salmonella can lead to hospitalization and even death.

To prevent salmonella infection, it is important to avoid contact with raccoons and to properly clean and disinfect any areas where raccoons may have been present.

Raccoons Can Carry E. coli

E. coli is another bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected raccoons or their feces. Symptoms of E. coli include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

E. coli can also cause more severe complications such as kidney failure, especially in young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems.

To avoid E. coli infection, it is important to practice good hygiene, avoid contact with raccoons, and properly clean and disinfect any areas where raccoons may have been present.

Raccoons Can Spread Distemper

Raccoons can also carry a virus called distemper, which can be transmitted to domestic dogs through contact with raccoon saliva or urine.

Symptoms include fever, coughing, and discharge from the eyes and nose. It is important to have your pets vaccinated to protect them from this virus.

Raccoons Can Spread Parvovirus

This virus is highly contagious and can be spread to dogs through contact with raccoon feces. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

It is important to practice good hygiene and avoid contact with raccoon feces to prevent infection.

Conclusion

It is important to note that not all raccoons carry diseases, and the risk of infection is generally low.

However, it is still important to take precautions and to be aware of the potential risks associated with raccoons.

If you do come into contact with a raccoon or suspect that a raccoon may be carrying a disease, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

If you find a raccoon on your property, do not approach it or try to handle it yourself without first getting educated on how to handle raccoons on your property. Additionally, you can contact a professional wildlife control expert to safely remove the animal and prevent the spread of disease.

To learn ways to get rid of raccoon’s read my post on 22 Best Ways to Get Rid of Raccoons.