Animal feces: what is it?
Animal feces can actualy be a dangerous bio-hazard. Animal feces from rodents like rats, mice, bats and birds are associated with numerous respiratory and other ailments, including Cryptococcus, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), and leptospirosis: salmonella poisoning, Rabies, bacterial infections similar to tuberculosis, typhus fever, trichinosis, plague, infectious Jaundice and the Hantavirus. In addition to these biohazards, these animals can transmit mites, worms, and other harmful parasites to humans. Where people are nearby, high concentrations of these animals, especially their feces, pose serious health risks.
Where can it be found?
Animal feces can be found everywhere in any building we work or live in: inside walls, ceilings, and especially attics. Where significant numbers of these animals roost, there will be large concentrations of their feces. The inhalation of particulate matter from these feces, often disturbed during renovation or clean-up, can present a serious health risk to all, but especially to those with compromised immune systems, the old, young, and expectant mothers.
What can be done about it:
Living with animal feces is preventable. Ensure that your home has a complete building envelope with no holes or entries for these animals to enter. Make sure nothing on your property, trash or nesting material will attract them. If they enter your home, consult a pest control professional to remove them, prevent their return and help you decide whether the remaining feces present a severe health risk. An environmental professional experienced with biohazards will also help you decide the safest method for dealing with these contaminants.