safe to have rodents?

Question
Hi Blake, about 1 or 2 months ago there was a cupple cleaning there garage in my city, they'd left the bay door closed, both people died shortly after cleaning there garage, it was said to have been because the garge had wild mice in it, that they have some sort of sickness that can cause illness/death in people that can be contracted from cleaning up feces, I really want to go out adn get a pair or trio of gerbils which would be kept in my bedroom, I want to know if it'll be safe to have them? I had read something in an online articale saying something about the incadent in my city as well as pet rodents might be at risk of infecting there owners as well, please let me know what you think about all this, thanks.

Answer
Hi,

Well, actually this is Kelly, not Blake :)

Wild mice do have some diseases, but they contract those diseases in the wild.  It's completely safe to own domestic rodents.  You just have to take some precautions (as with any other pet).  Before and after you handle your gerbils, wash your hands thoroughly, and don't touch your nose, mouth, eyes, or ears before you wash your hands.

I have read a similar article, and I know it said not to kiss your gerbils, but honestly, I've always been affectionate with mine, and I've never been sick.  Still, it you are worried about diseases, don't kiss your gerbils.  And when you clean up after them, simply wash your hands afterwards.  There are no strong fumes from their feces or urine, so you don't have to worry about breathing it in.  (That's part of the reason gerbils make such great pets - no smells.)

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly