Health experts are issuing urgent warnings as cases of a potentially fatal rat-borne disease surge across eastern Australia, with professional pest control services becoming increasingly vital for protecting families and pets from this growing threat.
What is Rat Lungworm Disease?
Rat lungworm disease, scientifically known as Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is a parasitic infection that poses serious health risks to both humans and dogs. The parasite mainly lives in rodents such as rats and can infect snails and slugs that come into contact with infected rat faeces. This deadly disease has already claimed two lives in Australia.
Alarming Surge in Cases Across Eastern Australia
Recent research from the University of Sydney reveals a concerning trend that demands immediate attention from property owners. Veterinary researchers have documented a dramatic increase in cases affecting dogs in Sydney and Brisbane over the past five years.
The surge coincides with La Niña weather patterns, with higher-than-usual rainfall creating ideal breeding conditions for both rodents and the snails and slugs that carry the disease.
The adult worms are found in rats. Infected rats excrete the parasite larvae in their faeces. This creates a dangerous cycle where contaminated rat droppings infect snails and slugs, which then become disease vectors threatening human health.
How People Contract the Rat Lungworm Disease
Infection typically occurs through:
- Accidental ingestion of infected snails or slugs
- Consuming unwashed lettuce or leafy vegetables contaminated with infected slug slime
- Children playing in gardens with high snail populations
- Pet dogs eating infected gastropods during outdoor activities
Rodent Control Services
Effective rat lungworm prevention starts with eliminating the primary host – rats. Flick provides professional pest control services which includes:
- Property inspection to identify rat harbourage areas
- Targeted baiting programs using commercial-grade rodenticides
- Exclusion services sealing entry points and eliminating food sources
Contact Flick Pest control immediately if you notice:
- Rat droppings around your property
- Gnaw marks on food packaging or structures
- High populations of snails and slugs in garden areas
- Evidence of rodent nesting in roof spaces or wall cavities
- Pet dogs showing unusual interest in garden gastropods
Why Professional Pest Control Services Are Essential
While rat lung worm disease is an extremely rare cause of meningitis in Australia, the recent surge in cases demonstrates the importance of proactive pest management. Professional services provide:
- Expertise in identifying and eliminating pest harbourage areas
- Safe application of treatments protecting family health
- Comprehensive solutions addressing both primary and secondary disease vectors
Take Action Today
Don’t wait for pest problems to escalate into health threats. The rising cases of rat lungworm disease across eastern Australia highlight the critical importance of professional rodent control services.
Don’t risk your family’s health when dealing with disease-carrying pests, contact Flick pest control today to schedule a comprehensive property inspection and develop a customized pest management plan for your property.
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