Vectors And Pests Vectors and pests may become an issue following a major wildfire in the form of mosquitoes and flies, rodents, Africanized bees, and other vectors endemic in areas of the country. Increased contact between humans and vectors and pests can be a result of the wildfire or the conditions following a wildfire. Events may create migration effects that lead vectors and pests into nearby inhabited areas and the presence of unchecked food wastes or other sources of food may increase the presence of vectors and pests. Animal Control There may also be dead, injured or displaced animals (wild and domestic). Displaced or injured animals may be confused and unpredictable. Local animal control authorities should be contacted to handle animal matters and if it becomes necessary to handle carcasses, appropriate protective clothing should be worn. Displaced individuals will often bring their domes - tic pets to evacuation or mass care facilities. Those facilities will often have locations to house pets or animals and with exceptions, disallow them in sleeping areas or other common areas. Education Awareness of problem locations and an aggressive public information advisory campaign will help dampen the effects of an increasing presence of vectors and pests. In some cases, medical attention may be necessary following outbreaks that may be vector-borne. Increased vector presence is not only a nuisance but can also impact the stress and anxiety of all involved.
Sample Messaging • CDC-Protect Yourself from Animal- and Insect- Related Hazards After a Disaster Sample messaging can be downloaded at: bit.ly/wildfire-guide . • Ensure messaging includes snakes and other wild animal threats, what to look out for and how to handle contact. This will also apply to any staff entering the field. Recovery Objectives • Coordinate provision of emergency waste care facilities, base camps, and other points of congregation to minimize vectors and pests and wild animal egress. • Ensure public and private refuse haulers reinstate services and consider special pickups where necessary. • Address vector and pest complaints and implement or recommend implementation of controls. • Evaluate and ensure applicable standards are applied to animal evacuation centers. • Work with your PIO to develop and distribute messaging for the public, including the location of impacted areas and the contributing environmental factors. • Ensure messaging is available online and via print and in the primary languages spoken in the community. • Continue messaging the broader public on vector and pest control measures. • Work with mosquito abatement programs to address complaints and where vector control measures can be applied. • Advise the public on potential diseases, symptoms, control measures, avoidance tactics, and insect repellant use. Immediate Response Objectives • Monitor locations where people are congregating to determine if more direct vector and pests messaging is appropriate. • Ensure staff that enter impacted areas are trained and equipped to deal with an increase in vectors and pests. • Ensure pets and animals are provided with care and shelter. Keep documentation of pets that were relocated, euthanized, or died.
24
Powered by FlippingBook