
Rodent reservoirs
Rodent reservoirs refer to rodents, such as rats and mice, that naturally carry and harbor certain diseases without necessarily getting sick themselves. These animals can serve as sources of infection for humans and other animals, often transmitting pathogens through bites, droppings, urine, or contact with contaminated materials. Understanding rodent reservoirs is important for controlling and preventing the spread of diseases like hantavirus, leptospirosis, and plague, as they play a key role in maintaining the presence of these pathogens in the environment. Managing rodent populations and minimizing contact with them are critical steps in disease prevention.