“If you are pregnant, wash your hands frequently, don’t clean the hamster cage or sweep up rodent droppings , and whenever possible, avoid areas populated with mice,” says Stavola.
Is it safe to have a hamster while pregnant?
If you’re pregnant or planning to get pregnant, be very careful with rodents like hamsters, guinea pigs and mice. They may carry a virus called lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (also called LCMV) that can be harmful to you and your baby. LCMV can cause severe birth defects and miscarriage.
What are the chances of getting LCMV while pregnant?
Several serologic studies conducted in urban areas have shown that the prevalence of LCMV antibodies in human populations range from 2% to 5% . Additionally, pregnancy-related infection has been associated with congenital hydrocephalus, chorioretinitis, and mental retardation.
What pets can you have while pregnant?
Dogs . It is generally safe for pregnant moms and newborn babies to be around dogs. If your pet dog is healthy and up-to-date on his vaccinations, caring for your dog should not cause any problems for you during your pregnancy. Of course, safety around dogs depends on the dog.
Can I pick up dog poop while pregnant?
Dogs and pregnancy. While you don’t have to worry about dog poop when you’re pregnant (other than the odor with your newly heightened sense of smell), it’s still important to prepare your pooch for her sibling.
Where is LCMV most common?
LCMV infections have been reported in Europe, the Americas, Australia, and Japan , and may occur wherever infected rodent hosts of the virus are found. The disease has historically been underreported, often making it difficult to determine incidence rates or estimates of prevalence by geographic region.
Is LCMV airborne?
If you do come in contact with a rodent or its urine, droppings, or nesting materials, wash hands very well with soap and water afterwards. Avoid vacuuming or sweeping rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials, which can cause the virus to become airborne and increase the chance of breathing in the virus.
Can dogs sense when your pregnant?
Dr. Barrack points out that changes at home will always have an effect on a dog. “ Your dog is smart enough to pick up on these changes during pregnancy , both in a physical way — which is how your body will be changing, your stomach, your smell — and in an emotional way, such as your feelings and your mood,” she says.
Can dog pee hurt my baby?
Pet urine can be toxic and especially to children that play near the floor! If you think your child is exposed, take action fast! Don’t wait to train your pets properly and clean the carpets and floors promptly!
Is it true that animals can sense pregnancy?
Animal behavior specialists say yes , cats can tell even before you take a test to confirm your pregnancy.
Is it safe to walk a dog that pulls while pregnant?
If your dog has a habit of pulling, it might put you at risk of falling. A good solution is to buy your dog a harness , rather than a collar. A harness discourages dogs from jumping. It will make your dog calmer and you’ll have better control.
Can you go to a petting zoo while pregnant?
When you’re pregnant, be extra careful around animals , foods from animals, and animal waste. Wash your hands after you touch an animal or anything that could have been contaminated by an animal. Protect your unborn baby from dangerous infections from animals or animal products.
Does LCMV go away?
6. Are there complications after recovery? – Previous observations have shown that most patients who develop aseptic meningitis
How do you know if I have LCMV?
What are the Symptoms? Symptoms of LCMV infection are similar to those for influenza and include fever, stiff neck , a lack of appetite, muscle aches, headache, nausea and vomiting and occur 1–2 weeks after exposure to an infected rodent.
How is LCMV treated?
No specific drug treatment is indicated in most cases of LCMV infection. Most patients improve spontaneously within 1-3 weeks with no sequelae. Ribavirin has in vitro activity against LCMV and has been used with success in transplant recipients with severe disease. Intravenous ribavirin is not commercially available.
How long is LCMV airborne?
LCMV will retain its infectivity for at least 206 days if stored in 50% glycerine and 0.85% saline at 4-10°C 1 .
