By Fatimah Idera
The accumulation of refuse caused by Birmingham’s ongoing bin collection strike poses a major public health risk, as rodents thrive on the abundance of rotting food left unattended.
Approximately 400 council waste workers in Birmingham went on strike on Tuesday over a dispute concerning jobs and pay. Unite warned that the disruption could extend into the summer, while the city council insisted that they had made a fair and reasonable offer.
Birmingham City Council reiterated that their proposal to workers was equitable and expressed concerns that the escalation of industrial action would lead to greater disruption for residents.
Grahame Turner, technical manager at the National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA), warned, “This is a major public health hazard, and what we’re witnessing in Birmingham is highly concerning.”
“Pests such as rats, mice, and even squirrels are actively seeking easy food sources at this time of year, and uncollected waste is an open invitation for them,” he explained.
“Rotting food is a feast for rodents, and Birmingham is already highly susceptible due to previous strikes and its existing rodent infestation levels in urban areas.”
Mr. Turner further emphasized that once rodents discover overflowing bins, they are likely to venture into nearby houses, searching for warmth and shelter.
“Rodents aren’t just a nuisance—they pose serious health risks to individuals and families,” he warned. “Rats and mice carry diseases such as leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella, which can spread through their droppings, urine, and contaminated food supplies.”
Additionally, rodents can cause severe structural damage by chewing through electrical wiring, insulation, and even damaging plumbing systems.
In response to the ongoing strikes, Mr. Turner urged residents to take preventive measures where possible. This includes storing uncollected rubbish in sealed containers or bins and, if feasible, transporting waste to local recycling centers or disposal sites to minimize the attraction of pests.
Meanwhile, the global prevalence of Lassa fever, a disease caused by rodents, remains a pressing concern. Taking early action in Birmingham to curb the growing rodent population could help prevent another widespread outbreak of infectious diseases worldwide.
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