Does Possums Have Diseases

Possums also known as opossums or simply possums are wild nocturnal creatures that are found throughout North South America. They are often considered to be pests due to their tendency to scavenge for food in residential areas their ability to destroy gardens vegetation. However these animals are also known to be carriers of a number of diseases that can potentially harm humans other animals. In this article we will explore some of the common diseases that possums carry.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through contact with possum urine or feces. Symptoms of this disease in humans include fever chills headache muscle aches a rash. In severe cases leptospirosis can cause liver kidney damage even death.

Tuberculosis

Possums can also be carriers of tuberculosis (TB) a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. Humans can contract TB through inhalation of droplets from an infected individual or through contact with infected animals including possums. Symptoms of TB in humans include coughing chest pain fatigue weight loss.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Possums can carry rabies while they are not significant carriers of the disease they can still transmit the virus to humans other animals through bites or scratches. Symptoms of rabies in humans include fever headache muscle weakness seizures. Without treatment rabies can be fatal.

Salmonella

Possums can also carry the salmonella bacteria which can be transmitted to humans through consumption of contaminated food or water. Symptoms of salmonella in humans include diarrhea vomiting stomach cramps fever. In severe cases salmonella can cause dehydration require hospitalization.

Conclusion

While possums can be cute harmless-looking creatures they can carry a number of diseases that can be dangerous to humans other animals. As such it is important to take precautions when dealing with possums such as wearing gloves avoiding contact with their urine or feces. If you suspect that you have been exposed to a possum-borne disease seek medical attention immediately.