PESTAWARE
Families are at risk as bin strikes create a paradise for pests on the streets of Birmingham, say experts at British Pest Control Association (BPCA).
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The not-for-profit national trade body is raising awareness across the city amid fears rocketing pest populations could pose a risk to life.
Improper use of pest control products and rat bites are among eight major public health risks identified by BPCA, that could affect Birmingham residents while strike action continues.
Niall Gallagher, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “People in Birmingham are facing serious health risks due to the amount of uncollected household waste that is mounting in the city.
“This is a major public health incident, and that risk level will remain high while the rubbish remains piled up in the streets.
“We are deploying a rapid response information campaign, so residents are aware of the risks and know where to look for help.”
In a bid to help residents protect themselves from pests, BPCA is highlighting the main risks to health:
1. Rat urine and droppings
Rats can carry many nasty diseases. They defecate between 30 and 50 times a day and can spread diseases to humans through their urine or body coming into contact with food preparation areas.
Diseases spread by rats include Leptospirosis, Salmonella, Listeria and Hantavirus. Use gloves if you have to touch any rubbish that could be infected by rats and wash your hands frequently.
2. Sickness from mice
Mice numbers are set to spike during the strike. Mice will urinate to mark their territory and have also been known to spread diseases such as Salmonella and Listeria through their urine, droppings and bedding.
They also carry dirt and bacteria that they transfer to surfaces including countertops, shelves and anywhere they travel. Mice can squeeze into the tiniest of gaps to get access to our homes and an easy meal.
3. Pest control products
Untrained use of pest control products can be dangerous. Products must be licensed for use in the UK and only used strictly in accordance with the instructions on the label. Incorrect use of pest control products, like rat poisons, can put people, including children, pets and wildlife at risk.
4. Fly infestations
Blow flies is a general description of several species of large buzzing flies, including the Bluebottle and House Flies. They are attracted to meat or carrion and will vomit onto food to soften it.
They have a great capacity for transmitting the bacterial agents of food poisoning through their feet, defecation and regurgitation. Wipe down surfaces regularly with anti-bacterial spray, and keep food covered or refrigerated.
5. Pipe and cable damage
Damage to electrical cables, pipes and even brickwork have been attributed to rats and mice, as both species need to gnaw to maintain their teeth. Fires and floods have been attributed to rodent activity.
If you find evidence of rodents in your home act quickly to minimise the damage.
6. Problem birds
Feral pigeons reportedly carry more than 110 pathogens, and their droppings can also cause respiratory conditions as they become airborne in small particles once dry.
In some areas of the city, pigeons and gulls will be taking advantage of dumped rubbish as a food source, bringing with them the parasites that live on them, which can include mites, ticks and fleas. Always use a mask and gloves if you’re around dried guano.
7. Rodent bites
Rat bites are uncommon, but we have already had a report of a BPCA member in Birmingham bitten by a rat.
When cornered, a rat may spring at the threat and bite to defend itself. Rat bites can be deep, but even if the skin isn’t broken it’s important to immediately wash the area as thoroughly as possible and seek medical advice.
8. Ignoring pests
Pests will breed quickly with a good food source, meaning infestations can quickly spiral out of control. For example, a female mouse can produce anywhere between 5 and 10 litters a year, of between 5 and 7 offsprings.
This means that in just six months, a single breeding pair of mice could lead to 100+ offspring.
Niall added: “We want residents to find the information, advice and support they need to protect their homes, families and businesses from infestation, as piles of uncollected rubbish attract more pests, as they quickly move in to take advantage of the food source and then settle down to breed.
“We’re also anticipating a potential uptick in issues once any clear-up works begin as these larger pest populations start to seek alternative food and shelter.
“Across the city, BPCA members are doing their utmost to help residents proof their homes against pests and tackle infestations.”
BPCA member businesses are endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme as they must carry the correct insurances and are trained and qualified technicians who are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636 and follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.
Don’t ignore a pest issue. To get support and find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find.
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