Rodents bite about 100 New Yorkers in the city every year, according to recent city Health Department statistics. But this number is just based on bites that are reported—many rodent bites are never reported. About 2/3 of these bites are from rats, and about 1/3 from mice. Many of the mouse bites happen when a mouse is caught in a trap and is still alive, and a homeowner tries to service the trap. Hungry rats are much more aggressive, and more likely to bite babies or young children, especially at night while they are sleeping.
If you or a loved one is bitten by a rodent, seek immediate medical attention. Some mice, but a greater percentage of rats, have bacteria on their teeth that can cause a disease known as rat bite fever. This illness can be easily treated by antibiotics, but can be deadly if left untreated.