Potential Hazards of Owning Hamsters to Humans
The potential hazards of owning hamsters to humans mainly include the following aspects:
Allergic Reactions
Hamsters' hair, dander, and excrements may trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin itching. Especially for people with sensitive constitutions, coming into contact with hamsters may lead to allergic symptoms like urticaria.
Transmission of Infectious Diseases
Hamsters may carry viruses or bacteria, such as Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV), Salmonella, etc. Through contact, these can be transmitted to humans, causing symptoms like fever, headache, and diarrhea. Hamsters may also carry Hantavirus, Clostridium tetani, etc., which can respectively cause epidemic hemorrhagic fever and tetanus.
Parasitic Infections
Hamsters may be infested with fleas, mites, etc. Under certain conditions, these parasites can infect humans, resulting in discomfort such as skin itching and redness. Severe parasitic infections may also trigger more serious allergic reactions or spread other diseases.
Bite Risks
Hamsters are quite wild and aggressive. They are likely to bite when in close contact. After being bitten, there is a risk of wound infection. It is necessary to deal with the wound promptly and get vaccinated accordingly.
Psychological Stress and Dependence
Taking care of hamsters for a long time may cause psychological stress to the owners, especially when they are busy with work or study. Some people may become overly dependent on their hamsters. Once the hamsters have health problems or die, it may have a negative impact on their mental state.
Environmental Hygiene Issues
The living environment of hamsters needs to be cleaned regularly. Otherwise, bacteria may multiply, affecting the home hygiene and air quality. Hamsters' feces and urine can also become sources of pollution in the home environment.
To reduce the harm of owning hamsters to humans, it is recommended to keep the hamster's living environment clean, disinfect it regularly, wash hands promptly after contact with hamsters, pay attention to personal hygiene and protection, avoid excessive close contact with hamsters, and closely monitor the hamsters' health conditions. Seek medical advice promptly if there are any abnormalities.