As raccoons continue to be adept at living especially in areas where human settlements is concentrated, it poses health risks by contracting their diseases. Raccoon diseases are very dangerous and can spread to livestock pets and people, as well. It is a common observation that young children are at high risk of contacting the raccoon diseases because they are always on contact with raccoon feces as they play within the neighborhood. The following are the common raccoon diseases which are carried by raccoons in Mississauga as well.
Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is commonly caused by Leptospira bacteria. The infected raccoons have it in the urine while human beings may be infected with it on drinking contaminated water with raccoon urine. Infection can take place on when contaminated water contacts exposed parts of the body. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using rain water from gutters, child pools or from the pet bowls. Leptospira bacteria may cause headache, flu-like symptoms, fever and muscle aches. On a serious note, the disease can cause damages on the liver and kidney.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a parasitic infection which is carried by raccoons. Giardiasis is usually transmitted to humans especially when they accidentally swallow soil or water contaminated by the raccoon feces. Any infected person may develop acute gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps and nausea. This can be treated by consulting a doctor who will provide a conclusive medication.

Rabies

This is a virus that is passed on to the human beings when they are bitten by an infected raccoon. Moreover, if saliva of an infected raccoon gets into contact with an open wound, infection will take place. Rabies is classified as dangerous, and any early infection should be diagnosed immediately by a doctor. This can be achieved by early vaccination in order to prevent the spread of the disease and development of chronic symptoms. Additionally, all pets should be vaccinated because they are prone to rabies infection through biting.

Raccoon Distemper

Raccoon distemper is a leading cause of raccoon deaths and poses a threat to human population. They cause acute illness on raccoons and eventually death after some days. The disease is highly contagious and can result in a high mortality rate especially when the raccoon population is high. In most cases, raccoon distemper can spread to the members of the Mustelidae, Felidae and cat families. If the raccoon population is not controlled from reaching the human settlement, the human population is at risk of contracting the disease in the long run