Safe Rodent Control in Corfu Public Spaces: A Comprehensive Guide
The Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands is proactively addressing public concerns regarding rodent control in public spaces, particularly the safety of baiting methods and potential risks to children. In an announcement, Deputy Mayor of Health and Preventive Medicine Programs, Mr. Christos-Heracles Skourtis, provided detailed information on the ongoing rodent control project.
The Rodent Control Program: History and Implementation
An organized rodent control program has been implemented annually in the Municipality since 2012, aiming to protect public health from diseases transmitted by rodents. The operations are carried out by a contractor selected through a competitive bidding process, who possesses all necessary licenses and certifications from the National Organization for Medicines (EOF) and the Ministry of Rural Development and Food for both the services provided and the products used.
The contractor employs a scientific supervisor who oversees the work and specialized, experienced personnel, ensuring adherence to scientific methodology and safe project execution.
Where are Rodent Control Measures Applied?
The program includes regular and emergency rodent control applications in all external public spaces, such as storm drains and identified rodent hotspots. It also covers the internal and external areas of municipal buildings and municipal offices within the Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands.
Furthermore, applications are conducted in specific locations including:
- Vido Island
- Municipal Children’s Camps
- “Stamatios Desyllas” Children’s Holiday Camps
- Roma settlement areas
- Traffic Education Park
- Waste Transfer Station (SMA)
Rodent control can also be carried out in other non-municipal spaces or buildings following a relevant prosecutor’s order, especially in cases where there is a serious risk to public health.
Baiting Methods and Safety Precautions
In public areas, rodent control involves placing suspended baits inside storm drain grates. These baits consist of a wire with two ends, to which a waxy anticoagulant rodenticide cube, typically bright blue or red, is attached. These formulations are designed to attract only rodents (house mice and rats) and do not attract non-target animals, as they contain special repellent substances.
The rodenticides work by inhibiting blood clotting in the rodents’ liver, leading to their death within 3-10 days of consumption. Their slow and cumulative action allows sufficient time for administering an antidote (Vitamin K1), significantly reducing the risk to non-target animals. Deceased rodents mummify, preventing unpleasant odors.
The bait wire is securely suspended within the drains and can only be removed intentionally. Before each regular or emergency application, the Municipality thoroughly informs citizens about the date and locations of application through an announcement and press release. This information is posted on the official website of the Municipality and published by local media outlets.
The announcement includes the name of the contractor company, contact details for the scientific supervisor, and the telephone number of the Poison Control Center. In cases of applications in Municipal Units, the Decentralized Municipal Units and the Presidents of the Local Communities are also informed.
Important Warnings for Citizens
Due to the toxicity of the rodenticides, which are exclusively intended for rodent control, the Municipality urges citizens not to touch or remove the placed baits from storm drain grates.
If a bait is found outside a drain or a deceased rodent is sighted, citizens are requested to immediately inform the competent municipal service and the Department of Public Health Protection and Promotion, by calling 26610 38320 or sending an email to [email protected].
Parents are particularly advised to ensure that children do not approach baited drains for safety reasons and to protect public health.
Contact Information
- Department of Public Health Protection and Promotion: 26610 38320
- Email: [email protected]
Stay informed and contribute to a safer Corfu!
