human health reactions to rats...

Question
Hi Sandra! I am hoping you might know how to help me! I got my sweet ratties at the end of November last year (2008). Around early to mid January of this year I got a horrible rash on my skin that was itchy, and spread like wildfire. The doc said it was impetigo, and gave me a cream that worked for the most part. But then I got something on my hand that was kind of the same, but then as it spread it looked different and was horrible. It starts under my skin as little bumps and then as I scratch it it comes up out of my skin and forms a bubble and pops. I have NEVER had anything like this in my life! Even the dermatologist doesn't know where it came from.

My question is: Is there any way the rats could carry something in their saliva, or urine or feces that could cause such a thing? I cannot figure out where this has come from, and I don't want to get rid of them, but I am really frustrated! Thanks for your time!

Answer
Hi


I am really sorry for your troubles.  The only thing rats can give humans and humans can give rats is ringworm. However, people can have skin reactions to rats if they are allergic. Usually though it is resolved once the area is washed and an cream is applied to stop any itching or hives.  What happens is the rats (usually young rats with sharp nails that havent had time to wear down yet) step in their own urine. Rat urine contains a protein that some humans may be sensitive to. If the rat is climbing on your arm or legs, the tiny toenails may snag your skin and their urine that is on their nails and paws will get into the tiny cuts. This can cause an allergic reaction that results in itchy red hives or raised skin.  Washing the area and putting something on like cortisone cream or benadryl cream etc....usually helps and it goes away lickity split.  I have this happen all the time when I have new babies but once the nails become dull from every day wear and tear, no more itchy skin.   I dont know if this is what your going through because it isnt going away with treatment by professionals and it doesnt look like impetigo.  

What to do is this: From now on, wear long sleeves and gloves around the rats and wash up after handling them.  If your rash goes away, it is some odd allergic reaction to them, but if it doesnt get any better, you know it has nothing to do with the rats since they are not having direct contact with your skin.