PelGar said it anticipates that many pests will flourish as a direct result of decreased human activity in and around buildings through social distancing and lockdown measures.
In a posting on its website, the company said that pest control is already on the frontline of public health around the world; given the situation we now find ourselves in it could prove even more essential.
PelGar warned that the closure of schools, pubs, restaurants, hotels, tourist attractions and other public places to enforce social distancing will have unintended consequences.
“Animals are always quick to adapt and, as a result, we anticipate that many pest species will flourish as a direct result of these necessary global measures,” the company said.
“Our general day-to-day activity keeps many pests at bay in our work and leisure environments; pests generally prefer to keep away from human contact and infestations are quickly spotted and dealt with.
“However, the complete closure of many premises means that pest technicians may no longer have access to continue existing pest control plans or deal with a rise in infestations. If pests have adequate food and water within these building populations will quickly escalate.”
PelGar continued: “We should expect therefore to see an increase of pests like rats on our streets in search of easy food from litter and bins.
“Within our own homes we may see an increase in mice, ants and flies as they too profit from our reduced movement.”
Pest control manufacturers and technicians can continue to work as ‘key workers’ in the sector of public health and hygiene, but whether many will depends upon their own circumstances and preferences.
PelGar added: “Some may not be able to access premises they routinely manage whilst others will. Some may continue to provide a domestic service whilst others may have vulnerable family members they would prefer to protect.
“Companies and technicians must balance the needs of pest control against the safeguarding of their customers, staff and families; that is not a blanket decision that the industry can make but one for individual consideration.
“Whatever the outcome of those decisions, we must be aware that pests are not constrained by our social distancing measures and will flourish in our absence.”