In 2023, the number of rat infestation cases in Singapore increased by about 15 percent.
What makes this such a pressing problem in Singapore?
Background
As temperatures rise due to global warming, rats’ metabolism and sexual drive increase. As a result, they require more food and are thus sighted more frequently as they look for food. They also breed more in the hotter weather, and thus, their population increases in size.
Furthermore, since another way climate change manifests is through increased rainfall, the heavy rain experienced in Singapore at times causes rat burrows to flood, thus forcing the rats out of their burrows, into the public’s open sight as they scurry for food and shelter.
The Dangers of Rats
The spread of infectious diseases
Rats can carry and spread infectious diseases. When they roam about, their faeces, urine, or saliva contaminate water, food, and even dust. If humans have direct contact with this contaminated water, food, or dust, dangerous diseases such as hantavirus or salmonellosis may be spread to them.
These diseases may also be spread through rat bites. Occasionally, some rats can be aggressive. They may attack and bite humans, spreading various dangerous diseases.
Posing serious hazards
They also have strong and sharp molars that can chew through almost anything. Thus, they can damage property in and outside of the household. For example, rats can chew through structural items such as wooden beams, footings, and concrete. Furthermore, despite electrical wires being covered with strong material like PVC piping, rat teeth can breach it as well. This becomes a fire hazard as exposed wires will spark when they come into contact with each other and this can start raging fires. It can also cause fatal electric shocks.
The infestation of fleas and ticks
Fleas and ticks are usually picked up outdoors. An infestation is easy to have, as female fleas can lay 40 to 50 eggs a day, and female ticks lay hundreds to thousands of eggs each time.
The soft, warm fur of rats provides the perfect environment for fleas and ticks. Singapore’s warm weather all year round further enhances this environment. Thus, rats often carry fleas and ticks.
Fleas and ticks are dangerous for both humans and our pet cats and dogs. Flea and tick bites cause a range of diseases with different symptoms such as itching, irritation, fever, body aches, rashes, and nausea. These diseases can be very severe and can cause organ damage.
Conclusion
The rat infestation issue is a complex one to solve. Because these animals are intelligent and excellent at hiding, capturing them is a challenge. It is important to manage the presence of rats to protect our health and wellbeing, and prevent any grave consequences. If you see them around, do inform your Town Council. We must work together to effectively manage and control rat infestations in Singapore.
Photo credit: https://singaporedesk.blogspot.com/2014/10/rat-infestation.html
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