Home » Latest » U.S. » Coronavirus precautions lead to rat problem in New Orleans

Coronavirus precautions lead to rat problem in New Orleans

10

InfoSearched 40 0 U.S.

6.7

SaveSavedRemoved 0

The city of New Orleans has seen a surge in coronavirus cases, quickly straining hospital staff and resources that were not ready for the spike.

However, the precautions put in place to slow the virus’ spread have inadvertently led to a new problem: with no food littering alleyways from people visiting the city’s many restaurants, hungry rats that relied on the scraps have been driven out onto the streets. Omar Villafranca reports on how the city is combatting its problems.

What are the potential health risks associated with the increase in rats?

Coronavirus precautions lead to rat problem in New Orleans

New Orleans, a city famed for its vibrant culture and unique cuisine, is facing an unexpected problem since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic – a rat infestation. With the city’s restaurants closed and streets practically deserted due to stay-at-home orders, rats are scurrying out in search of food.

Many restaurants and bars remain closed or operate at limited capacity to curb the spread of coronavirus, leaving behind a large amount of food waste in alleyways and in dumpsters. Rats, which are well-known scavengers, are taking advantage of this abundance of food.

Officials in New Orleans say that rat complaints from residents have increased dramatically in recent months. According to Gambit, a New Orleans-based news outlet, rat control calls have surged by about 25% since the pandemic began.

The city is now grappling with this rat problem as it struggles to contain the spread of coronavirus. Rats are known to spread diseases such as typhus and leptospirosis, which can cause serious health problems for both humans and animals.

The city is taking measures to address the issue, including increasing garbage disposal and pest control efforts. However, with many businesses shut down or operating at reduced capacity, it may be difficult to prevent rats from finding new sources of food.

New Orleans’ rat problem highlights the unintended consequences of coronavirus precautions. With the closure or limited operation of businesses, the ecosystem has been disrupted in ways unanticipated.

It is not just New Orleans that is facing this problem. Reports from around the world show that rats are taking advantage of empty streets, including in London and New York City. With more cities under lockdown measures to curb the spread of coronavirus, this is a problem that could recur.

In conclusion, the coronavirus precautions and closures of restaurants and bars in New Orleans have led to a surge in rats, which can pose a significant health risk. While the city has taken measures to address the problem, the underlying issue – a large amount of food waste – remains. Cities may need to consider alternative solutions to prevent the spread of disease and the proliferation of pests in the future.