Our Role in Advancing Rodent Research & Public Health
Scientific insights often depend on committed field partners, and Preventive Pest Control was proud to contribute to a multi-year research project* recently published in May 2024. This work examined whether common wild rodents across North America could acquire or potentially transmit SARS-CoV-2.
Our team’s involvement began in 2020, when we collected and preserved rodent samples to support Dr. Michael Parsons and the researchers leading this important effort. The published paper formally acknowledges Preventive Pest Control for our participation, and it highlights how professional rodent control teams can play a practical role in understanding emerging public health concerns.
What the Research Revealed About Rodents & SARS-CoV-2
The study’s findings offer important context for homeowners and businesses who rely on accurate information about rodent behavior, disease risks, and long-term prevention strategies.
It examined 248 wild rodents, including house mice, deer mice, brown rats, and black rats, captured from Texas, Washington, and British Columbia between July 2020 and June 2021. The data underscored the value of continued surveillance while also offering reassuring clarity.
Before exploring a few key conclusions, it helps to look at the broader implications for rodent management today.
The results included:
- A Small Number of Rodents Showing Antibodies. A limited set of brown rats and house mice had neutralizing antibodies, which suggested possible past exposure but not active infection.
- No Confirmed Active SARS-CoV-2 Infections. All oronasal and fecal samples tested negative using RT-qPCR methods, with only one inconclusive fecal sample from a house mouse.
- Clear Support for Ongoing Monitoring. The researchers emphasized the importance of continued testing as part of broader wildlife disease surveillance efforts.
- Evidence Reinforcing Integrated Rodent Control. Findings highlight how proactive rodent management can help reduce potential public health risks connected to commensal rodents.
- Value of Field Partnerships in Scientific Studies. Collaborations between pest control professionals and researchers continue to advance understanding of zoonotic threats.
These takeaways show why managing rodent activity around homes and businesses remains an essential part of health-focused pest control.
How Preventive Pest Control Helped Support the Four-Year Study
Our team’s role centered on sample collection, preservation, and transport. In 2020, we collected wild rats for the study, froze the specimens, and coordinated delivery to Dr. Michael Parsons. From there, samples were shipped to participating researchers who evaluated whether common rodent species could acquire or potentially spread SARS-CoV-2.
This work reflects our ongoing commitment to science-based pest management. Every season, our specialists help clients make informed decisions by offering professional insight into rodent behavior, sanitation issues, and long-term exclusion strategies.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Rodent Control & Prevention
The research adds another layer of understanding to how rodents interact with human environments. It also reinforces the importance of consistent prevention, monitoring, and removal services.
Before sharing how our rodent solutions can support safer, cleaner living spaces, here are several enduring benefits of prioritizing rodent exclusion and prevention:
- Rodent Control Protects Property Integrity. Professional mitigation helps prevent structural damage caused by gnawing, nesting, and contamination.
- Preventive Measures Reduce Health Risks. Effective rodent programs lower exposure to disease, droppings, allergens, and unsanitary conditions around your home or business.
- Ongoing Monitoring Enhances Long-Term Safety. Regular inspections help identify early signs of activity before a small issue becomes an infestation.
- Exclusion Work Creates Stronger Long-Term Barriers. Sealing entry points and improving sanitation limit habitat opportunities and discourage future rodent intrusion.
- Science-Led Rodent Strategies Deliver Better Outcomes. Evidence-based approaches help ensure effective removal, improved safety, and cleaner indoor environments.
These benefits align with our mission to help clients maintain healthier spaces with reliable, preventive rodent programs.
Protect Your Property with Professional Rodent Services
If you’re concerned about rodent activity or want to establish a long-term prevention plan, Preventive Pest Control is here to help.
Call (713) 955-7405 or contact us online to schedule a rodent inspection or learn more about our comprehensive rodent control services.
*Learn more about the published study:read the full research paper and its findings here.