The main infectious diseases to be aware of when keeping hamsters include the following:
Salmonella Infection
Hamsters may carry Salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with the hamster or its excrement. This can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
Listeriosis
Hamsters may carry Listeria. After coming into contact with a contaminated hamster or its living environment, symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain can occur.
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis
Caused by the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle pain.
Hemorrhagic Fever
Although rare, hamsters may also carry the virus that causes hemorrhagic fever. Symptoms include fever, a tendency to bleed, and kidney damage.
Toxoplasmosis
Hamsters are one of the hosts of Toxoplasma gondii. Close contact with hamster feces may lead to symptoms such as headache and fever.
Mousepox in Small Hamsters
Caused by the mousepox virus, it can potentially lead to severe skin infections.
Scrub Typhus
Although not common, scrub typhus can also be transmitted through hamsters. Symptoms include skin papules and blisters.
Preventive Measures Include:
Maintain Hygiene: Regularly clean the hamster's living environment and avoid contact with the hamster's excrement.
Personal Protection: Wash your hands before and after handling the hamster, and avoid direct contact with its excrement.
Regular Checks: Take the hamster to a pet hospital for health checks to detect and address health issues promptly.
Choose Healthy Hamsters: Purchase hamsters from reliable sources to ensure they are in good health.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you experience any discomfort, seek medical examination and treatment immediately.