SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/small-lcmv-wild-mice

How can a pet hamster pick up the LCM virus?

From wild mice or an infected breeding colony.

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  1. From wild mice or an infected colony ✔
  2. From a person with a cold
  3. From mosquitoes inside the house

Why: LCM virus mainly lives in wild house mice. Hamsters can catch it from an infected colony where they were bred or from wild mice and their droppings. Infected hamsters often look healthy.

Huh, didn't know that: Keeping wild mice out of your home also protects your pet rodents.

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What do you call a hamster that sits on a throne? Your Royal Hamness.
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References

Answer: From wild mice or an infected colony. LCM virus mainly lives in wild house mice. Hamsters can catch it from an infected colony where they were bred or from wild mice and their droppings. Infected hamsters often look healthy.

  1. About Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis, CDC www.cdc.gov/lymphocytic-choriomeningitis/about/index.html
    Hamsters can spread LCM if they were infected in their colonies or by wild mice.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Disorders and Diseases of Hamsters, Merck Veterinary Manual www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/hamsters/disorders-and-diseases-of-hamsters
    Hamsters often do not appear sick, but they can spread the virus to people.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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