While highly beneficial for assisting in the creation of highly fertile landscapes throughout the country, ensuring the entrapment of water on land, aiding in the mitigation of droughts in certain types of environments, the creation of new ponds, and breaking down toxins that are often present in various environments, their increased population has created a new threat.
This time, to humans. It is the infection of the digestive system called “Giardiasis”. Due to their role in the spread and transmission of the infection, Giardiasis is often referred to as “Beaver Fever”. As these rodents continue to increase in numbers, it is speculated that the number of cases of this dangerous digestive infection will also increase.
What is Beaver Fever?
Giardiasis, or “beaver fever”, is an infection that invades and detrimentally impacts the digestive system of the human body. It is caused by a single-celled parasite called “Giardia Lamblia”.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated that there are – at least – 16,000 documented cases of this condition each year; however, it is suspected that there are other cases that are not reported.
While a condition that commonly affects developing countries, this may impact individuals within the United States that live in poorly sanitized areas, areas that are prone to flooding, near wooded areas, utilize a well, and/or it may occur among those that play in, swim in, or wade in natural waters or drink from those waters.
How is Beaver Fever Spread?
It is believed that beavers contaminate water sources – such as lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, and flooded areas – with the Giardia parasite. The feces of the beaver are believed to contain the parasite.
When that becomes mixed with water, that water becomes contaminated. Individuals that accidentally or intentionally swallow any amount of contaminated water may be infected with the parasite that results in the infection and the development of beaver fever.
The transmission may then be possible person-too-person, through sexual activities, and as a result of poor hygiene, such as not properly washing the hands. If beavers live in or near your property, it is possible to contract this illness.
Symptoms of Beaver Fever
If beaver fever has developed, many may not exhibit any symptoms; however, most people exhibit at least one of the following symptoms:
- A fever
- Dehydration
- Pain and discomfort in the abdomen
- Belching and/or gas
- Low energy levels
- Indigestion
- Poor appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
Avoiding Beaver Fever
The first step to avoiding beaver fever is to reduce populations of this animal around your home. If you swim, work, or play in the same water sources as beavers, it is advised that you are cautious not to swallow any of the water.
You should practice good hygiene and ensure that you wash your hands and arms with hot water and soap on a regular basis. If you are traveling abroad, you should avoid consuming beverages with ice and drinking water – especially if you are in a developing country.
If you are ready to eliminate those pesky beavers that live near your property, contact us today as we specialize in beaver removal in South and North Carolina.