One threat of climate change is the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, which is spread by mosquitoes. Fortunately, in Multnomah County, we have a team dedicated to monitoring vector-borne diseases and controlling vector populations.
Have you wondered who tracks rat- and mosquito-borne diseases across Multnomah County? Who responds to reports of illegal dumping or backyard roosters? The answer is Vector Control and Code Enforcement. The Multnomah County Environmental Health team monitors and responds to mosquitoes, rats, and code enforcement issues across the county.
What is a vector?
“Vector” is the term for animals or organisms that can spread disease to humans. In Multnomah County, mosquitoes and rats are the most common vectors.
Mosquitoes
Vector Control responds to at least 100 mosquito complaints annually and distributes approximately 2,000 mosquito-eating fish to community members with ponds or water features. The mosquito control program monitors mosquito numbers in urban and rural parts of the county during the active season. Community members noticing mosquitoes can contact Vector Control for a mosquito inspection. Inspectors can check and treat most areas for sources of standing water.
Rats
Vector Control responds to about 300 requests about rats and distributes 1,500-2,000 snap traps for rats per year. Community members are encouraged to call or email Vector if they suspect they have rats in or around their homes or yards. Rodent inspections are free of cost and inspectors focus on prevention, education, and suggestions for rat control moving forward.
What is Code Enforcement?
Code Enforcement responds to nuisance or illegal dumping violations in unincorporated Multnomah County. Nuisances are considered conditions or practices that can cause an unreasonable threat to public health, safety, and welfare.
Every year Code Enforcement responds to more than 250 code enforcement requests. In unincorporated Multnomah County, individuals can call Multnomah County Code Enforcement regarding piles of garbage or junk stored outside, waste tires, or cars/vehicles that don’t work and are on private property. In Portland, livestock complaints such as crowing roosters or other livestock concerns can call Code Enforcement. Code Enforcement also helps support the Food Inspection Program and Tobacco Retail Licensing.
Community Outreach
Vector Control attended almost 20 community events this past spring and summer. The team shared brochures, instructions, outreach specimens, coloring books, insect repellent wipes, and prizes as a way to engage the community and get the word out about vectors in Multnomah County.
Additionally, Vector Control and the Healthy Homes & Communities program have partnered to provide information about wider environmental health topics. The two programs recently ran a joint workshop about air quality, the mosquito life cycle, and public health careers at the iUrban Teen event at Portland Community College.
If you are interested in adding the Vector Control outreach table to your next event, email vector.nuisance@multco.us for more information.