pet rat health

Question
Hi,
   I am quite sure that I am getting the flu or at the very least a BAD cold. My question is: can my rat catch either of these from me? Should I touch her? Should she be in the same room with me? If you could please let me know I would be quite grateful.
                Thank you!

Answer
Hi Charlotte

The rats will be just fine, dont worry, just take care and get well soon!

Most things that make us sick are nonpathogenic to rats, so you cannot pass on the flu to them or any other disease such as a cold virus, strep throat etc... the only thing we CAN pass on to rats is the bacteria streptococcus pneumoniae, (pneumococcus) which is a nasty bacteria that can cause a slew of nasty illnesses, including a nasty pneumonia, and if you had, you would be in the hospital, trust me! Oh, and ring worm, which is a skin condition caused by a fungus.  So there ya go, your rats are fine in your room and around you.  They will be fine for a day or so in the cage, well fed and resting while you do. Concentrate on getting better!  I had the flu (the H1N1) back in June that led to pneumonia and put me in the hospital so please take good care while your ill.

Hope your better soon!