Getting WCOs Prepared for Zoonotics

Zoonotics are diseases transmitted from wildlife to humans. While trappers have been working with wildlife for centuries, it is still important for wildlife control operators (WCOs) and pest control operators (PCOs) to be aware of the zoonotics risks involved in controlling wildlife. Failure to be aware means that workers will not be prepared for wildlife diseases.

Doctors Are Not Looking for Zoonotics

Medical students have a saying, “When you hear hoof beats, don’t look for zebras.” The point is think of the obvious causes not the obscure. House M.D. may make good T.V. but it’s not normal or typical medicine. Unfortunately, for WCOs, we’re not normal. Unlike the general public, we are involved and in close contact with wildlife. So make sure you remind your doctor that you work with wildlife. How do you get your doctor prepared for zoonotics? Keep reading and download a copy of the zoonotic card.

Get Educated

Read the policy of the USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services regarding zoonotics http://www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/APHIS260a.pdf   It can provide your company with a good start for establishing policies to protect your employees from zoonotics.

Carry the Card

To help remind your worker and his/her doctor that these ordinary sniffles might be from a zoonotic origin, have them carry the “card.”  Use the wording found here http://www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/APHIS260a.pdf and put your own company info on it. Remind your workers regularly to ensure that they show medical personnel about their activities with wildlife.

While the illness may not be zoonotic in origin, it might. It is good to be safe.

Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, is the owner of Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. He helps people restore their balance with nature through publishing, training, consulting, and the internet. He has published numerous articles in trade and academic publications available at {Stephen’s Academia.edu Page} along with several books {WCC Store}). Listen to his podcast “Living the Wild Life” at {Pest Geek Podcast}. Click the links for past {shows} and {interviews}. Please subscribe to {Stephen’s YouTube Channel} He is a sought after speaker and trainer. If you would like to have Stephen speak at your event or use his consultation services, send an e-mail to [email protected] Copyright All postings are the property of Stephen M. Vantassel and Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. Text (not images) may be reprinted in non-profit publications provided that the author and website URL is included. If images wish to be used, explicit and written permission must be obtained from Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC.