Although bats may improve your outdoor environment, they have no place in your home. In fact, these creatures can harbor several bacteria and viruses, which could put you and your loved ones in danger. Here are just some of the reasons why professional bat removal is a smart idea.

How Can Bats Affect Human Health?

1. Rabies

It’s possible to contract rabies from bats in your home. For example, if you try to pick up and move a sick or injured bat, they might bite or scratch you, transferring the virus. Once the virus reaches the brain over the course of a few weeks, it can cause flu-like symptoms, including muscle aches and fever. As the infection progresses, anxiety, hallucinations, insomnia, and even a fear of water may develop. Eventually, without treatment, the disease is fatal.

2. Salmonella

This bacterial infection can be transferred through contact with, or the ingestion of, bat feces and urine. Therefore, you might be at risk when sweeping up or mopping in an attic that had a bat infestation. If you contract salmonella, you may experience symptoms similar to food poisoning, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Your infection may also present as a fever and headache. Typically, these symptoms last around a week, but they may take two weeks to appear in the first place.

3. Histoplasmosis

This fungal infection can be spread through bat droppings, which contain spores that may become airborne. When inhaled, humans can experience flu-like symptoms or more serious ones, such as blood irregularities and pneumonia. Histoplasmosis is often contracted when property owners provoke a roost that has left droppings, or when a river is drained, leaving the droppings behind.

With this information in mind, it’s easy to see why humans shouldn’t try bat removal on their own. If you see a bat in your home or business, reach out to American Bio-Tech Wildlife Services for help. This New Milford, CT, company will prevent these mammals from endangering your family by sealing your home and allowing the bats to use a one-way door to escape. If you’re interested in learning more about their bat removal services, visit their website. You can also call (860) 355-1231 to schedule an appointment.