Why is raccoon poop dangerous

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Section Navigation. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Raccoons may use sandboxes as a latrine. Keep sandboxes covered when not in use. A racccoon latrine found in an attic. Courtesy of Dr. Shira Shafir. The Dangers of Raccoon Poop. Where are raccoon droppings found? When are raccoon droppings dangerous? How can you avoid contact with raccoon feces?

Share This Post With Others! Facebook Twitter Linkedin Pinterest Email. Humans become infected by ingesting the droppings. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that raccoons can spread through their urine and droppings. This infection can be contracted by both humans and animals. If you have an open cut or wound and you have come in direct contact with raccoon urine or other secretions, you may contract the disease.

Raccoon dropping my contain salmonella bacteria. Humans can contract this infection through incidental ingestion by unintentionally transferring the microorganisms from the hands to the mouth. These bacteria can stay dormant in a dry environment for a long time, although it can become active through favorable conditions.

Rabies is a viral disease which can be carried by a variety of species, including raccoons. It is very important to stay alert and vigil if you have been bitten or scratched by an infected raccoon, as the disease can be fatal. Clean your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap, and monitor for symptoms of illness in the future. If you do develop symptoms, recalling that you handled raccoon waste may help narrow down your exact ailment. Treatment of a roundworm or other infection should be handled by a doctor.

As feces age, they weather and decompose. Old feces may look like dried leaves or debris. Danger from roundworms this is where it gets gross A raccoon latrine is very likely to contain roundworm eggs.

Raccoons are cute. Their latrines? Not so much. Preventing illness from raccoon roundworms You can prevent having a raccoon latrine on your property by discouraging raccoons from frequenting your outdoor living space.