Implementation of physical barriers to control rodents in peripheral family residences to food supply centers

Poma F.C.G.; Poma M.G.G. · Boletin de Malariologia y Salud Ambiental (2022) · DOI: 10.52808/bmsa.7e6.626.029

Resumen

Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus are native to Asia and to date are present all over the globe alongside humans. These rodents have introduced pathogenic microorganisms such as Yersinia pestis, Bartonella and hantaviruses into many new geographical areas. In addition, rats have acquired new macroparasites outside their native ranges and act as efficient transmitters of pathogens between wildlife, domestic animals, vectors, and humans. On the other hand, rodents damage and contaminate much more food than they consume. When they gnaw, they damage packaging and storage facilities used to store and transport food. Rodents contaminate food mainly through their droppings, hair, and urine. Commensal rat species such as R. rattus and R. norvegicus each produce around 40 droppings per day. If even one of these droppings finds its way into food intended for humans, there is a chance that the food will be rejected as unsuitable and its value will be significantly reduced. The purpose of this work is to have physical barriers in order to control the permanence of rodents in peripheral family residences around food supply conglomerates in the city of Huancayo, Peru. The results shown in this investigation, diagnosed a high infestation of rodents in the area surrounding the market of the city of Huanuco according to the urbanized areas. 100% of the residences that used physical barrier methods to control rodents showed a greater impact in some zoned areas than in others. This impact was significantly associated with the implementation of physical barriers.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Los Andes