Raccoons And Disease

Raccoons have adapted to urban and suburban life and are commonly seen or encountered by people in parks, neighborhoods or yards. Raccoons and disease usually go hand-in-hand, and these are diseases that can be spread to people (zoonoses) and pets. They can also cause serious scratch and bite injuries.

Rabies is the most commonly cited disease associated with raccoons. Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis & B. columnaris) is caused by contact with infected raccoon feces, which can pass the sticky and durable eggs to humans. Contracting this disease occurs by accidental ingestion or inhalation of the eggs. Infection of humans can lead to larval parasite migration to the central nervous system. Giardia lamblia is a protozoan causing diarrhea associated with ingesting food or water contaminated by raccoon excrement. Trypanosoma cruzi is associated with raccoon excrement as are Rickettsia rickettsii, Leptospirosis, and Salmonella.

If you have a Raccoon problem do not try to handle it yourself. Schedule a pest inspection today!