Lassa fever
Important in Nigeria. It is linked to contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rat urine or faeces.
Quick answer
There is no single disease called “rat urine disease.” The phrase may refer to infections linked to rodent urine, droppings, contaminated food, contaminated water, or rodent-infested spaces.
Leptospirosis
A bacterial disease spread through urine of infected animals, often through contaminated water or soil.
Hantavirus
A group of viruses linked mainly to rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or contaminated dust.
What to do after exposure
Wash exposed skin, avoid eating contaminated food, clean droppings safely, and watch for symptoms. Seek medical care if you develop fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing problems, or severe illness after exposure.
Why this matters in Nigeria
Lassa fever is the most important Nigerian comparison in this cluster. Malaria is also common, but fever should not be guessed. Testing and clinical evaluation matter.
Related: Lassa fever explained, What to do after rat exposure, Hantavirus explained.