What human diseases are carried by rodents?

The correct answer is significant because both leptospirosis and hantavirus are well-documented diseases transmitted by rodents.

Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacteria, which can be present in rodent urine. Humans can contract the disease through direct contact with contaminated water or soil. This makes awareness of rodent infestations crucial, as controlling the rodent population can reduce the risk of diseases like leptospirosis.

Hantavirus, on the other hand, is primarily transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. Inhalation of aerosolized virus particles can also lead to infection when cleaning areas that may harbor rodent waste. Hantavirus can cause severe respiratory conditions, emphasizing the importance of rodent control measures in preventing outbreaks.

In contrast, the other options mentioned do not include the correct combination of diseases associated with rodents. HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and not associated with rodent populations, while the common cold and chickenpox are viral infections that do not involve rodents as vectors. Therefore, understanding the specific diseases that rodents can carry helps in implementing effective strategies for public health and sanitation.