Killer rats have arrived in the UK
The rodents, which carry killer diseases, are booming because of a freak toxin-resistant gene.
Two more mutated strains of the pests have now been found in Sussex, adding to fears they are quickly spreading. The new rats are believed to have come from the continent, most likely France.
They are being helped by humans putting out poisoned food, which gives the new breed a “free meal”.
The rodents are flooding into Britain [Express Newspapers]
“They carry a lot of diseases, including Weil’s, which has been linked to deaths.”
Dr Dougie Clarke
Dr Dougie Clarke, of the University of Huddersfield, said: “Poisons such as the ones you buy in B&Q are not effective against them, nor are those used by pest control experts.
“There are obviously health concerns and worries about the bacteria they carry, such as salmonella.
“They carry a lot of diseases, including Weil’s, which has been linked to deaths. They also chew on electrical cables.”
Olympic champion Andy Holmes, Sir Steve Redgrave’s former rowing partner, died of Weil’s disease in 2010 following an event in Lincolnshire.
Wells disease claimed the life of Olympic rower Andy Holmes
It is even feared pets could die if they bite the new rats, due to the build-up of poisons in their bodies.
Desperate pest controllers are now calling for super-strength poisons.
The Health and Safety Executive held an emergency summit earlier this year and new rules for so-called “second generation” poisons are being drawn up.
Rats are known to carry a hoast of disease including Wells disease
The latest two strains of rat have been found in Eastbourne, Hastings, Battle and East Grinstead in southern England.
It is believed the creatures, first found in the south east, may now have reached Scotland.
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