Opossums, common marsupials found across North America, often raise questions regarding their potential to carry and transmit diseases. While generally not aggressive, they can harbor pathogens. Understanding these health risks involves knowing which diseases they carry and how they might spread to humans or pets. This clarifies common misconceptions and aids safe coexistence.
Diseases Opossums Can Carry
Opossums can carry various bacteria and parasites. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection, spreads through the urine of infected animals. Both pets and humans can contract it through contaminated water, soil, or fluids, potentially leading to severe complications.
Parasitic infections include Sarcocystis neurona, for which opossums are a definitive host. This parasite can cause Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) in horses when they ingest sporocysts from opossum feces. Other parasites include Coccidia and various internal nematodes.
Opossums also carry bacteria for Salmonellosis and Tularemia. They may host external parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, which transmit diseases such as Spotted Fever or Flea-Borne Typhus.
Opossums and Rabies
Opossums are remarkably resistant to rabies. Their naturally low body temperature, typically 94 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit, makes it difficult for the rabies virus to survive and thrive. This significantly reduces the likelihood of an opossum contracting or transmitting rabies.
Documented cases in opossums are exceedingly rare. Research and surveillance data consistently show they have one of the lowest rates of rabies positivity among wild animals. Therefore, the risk of encountering a rabid opossum is considerably low.
How Diseases Spread
Diseases from opossums can spread through direct or indirect contact. Direct transmission occurs through bites or scratches. Opossums may bite if they feel threatened or cornered.
Indirect transmission happens via contact with their feces or urine. Contaminated water, soil, or food can harbor pathogens that infect humans, pets, or livestock. Additionally, vector-borne transmission occurs when opossums carry fleas and ticks that transmit diseases.
Safe Practices Around Opossums
Practicing safe habits around opossums can reduce disease transmission risk. Avoid direct contact; never handle or approach them, especially if sick or injured. If an opossum is found in an unusual location or seems distressed, contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator.
Secure food sources to deter opossums. Keep trash cans tightly sealed, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and promptly pick up fallen fruit. Maintain a tidy yard by clearing brush piles and sealing openings to prevent denning. Vaccinating pets against common diseases also adds a layer of protection.