The Central Board of Health (CBH) is soliciting the help of homeowners and
administrators of government institutions to join in an effort to rid the country of
rodents, namely rats.
Principal Public Health Inspector Julienne Mannix said while there is no way to
determine whether there has been an upsurge in the number of rodents in the
country, there has been a steady stream of complaints, mainly from government-
run institutions such as the Clare Vue Hospital and the Fiennes Institute regarding
rodent problems.
“The rat infestation is a serious problem based on the reports we have received
from clinics, schools, and special-care facilities, for instance, the mental hospital
asking for assistance to rid them of rats,” Mannix explained.
She further explained that when the CBH conducts its inspection of these
institutions there is one common issue: the improper disposal and handling of
waste. “The factors leading to increases in the rat population relate to poor
sanitation, improper disposal grease/oils, and unwanted food that is not properly
bagged, and the harbouring of bulky items,” Mannix stated.
According to Mannix the rats that are seen in parts of St. John’s is directly
connected to the food that many restaurants dispose of randomly, on a daily basis
which forms a natural feeding ground for the rats.
The Public Health Inspector issued a warning to householders about the dangers of
providing the conditions for rats to thrive.
“It is very important that we keep our workspace and surroundings clean to keep
rats away. Rats are known to carry deadly diseases such as hantavirus, rat bite
fever, and more common to Antigua and Barbuda is leptospirosis. Signs to look out
for to know that rodents are present are rat droppings and rat gnaw marks. If found,
look for gaps or holes inside or outside the home or workplace and seal it up,” she
added.
Mannix noted that rats like to hide inside cabinets and drawers; therefore, these
areas should be checked. “After eating, thoroughly clean the area and wash hands
thoroughly. It is very important that we get rid of all rubbish including bulk waste.
Cut and remove overgrown vegetation, store garbage in tightly fitted containers,
and refrain from throwing bits of food outside,” she reiterated.
She noted that her department only serves government institutions. Private
individuals will need to contract an exterminator to control their rodent problem.
KEEP THEM OUT! STARVE THEM OUT! CLEAN UP! This is the theme of
the current anti-rodent campaign by the CBH.
