Zoonotic concern: Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus in Rodents

December 2, 2011; updated January 28, 2022

By: Christal Pollock, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Keywords: , , , ,

Categories: Guinea pig,  Hamster,  Mammals,  Mouse,  Rodent, 

Key Points

  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis or LCM is a rodent-borne viral infectious disease.
  • Humans are infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus or LCMV by exposure to contaminated urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting materials by direct contact or inhalation of infectious aerosols.
  • Person-to-person transmission has been reported in organ transplantation and from infected pregnant women to the fetus.
  • Clinical infection in humans can result in serious systemic infection, including aseptic meningitis or meningoencephalitis.
  • Anyone who comes into contact with rodent urine, feces, saliva, or blood is potentially at risk for infection.
  • Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling rodents or their cages and bedding.
  • Immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and women planning to become pregnant should avoid contact with rodents.

The physical and psychological benefits of pet ownership have been well established, however close contact with pets is not without risks including the potential for transmission of zoonotic disease. Rodents can carry a number of potential pathogens including lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus is found throughout the world in wild rodents. Disease is especially common in . . .

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References

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To cite this page:

Pollock C. Zoonotic concern: Lymphocytic choriomeningititis in rodents. January 28, 2022. LafeberVet Web site. Available at https://lafeber.com/vet/zoonotic-concern-lymphocytic-choriomeningitis-virus-in-rodents/