Large‐scale identification of rodenticide resistance in Rattus norvegicus and Mus musculus in the Netherlands based on Vkorc1 codon 139 mutations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Resistance to rodenticides has been reported globally and poses a considerable problem for efficacy in pest control. The most-documented resistance to rodenticides in commensal rodents is associated with mutations in the Vkorc1 gene, in particular in codon 139. Resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides has been reported in the Netherlands since 1989. A study from 2013 showed that 25% of 169 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) had a mutation at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene. To gain insight in the current status of rodenticide resistance amongst R. norvegicus and house mice Mus musculus in the Netherlands, we tested these rodents for mutations in codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene. In addition, we collected data from pest controllers on their use of rodenticides and experience with rodenticide resistance. RESULTS: A total of 1801 rodent samples were collected throughout the country consisting of 1404 R. norvegicus and 397 M. musculus. In total, 15% of R. norvegicus [95% confidence interval (CI): 13-17%] and 38% of M. musculus (95% CI: 33-43%) carried a genetic mutation at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene.CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates genetic mutations at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene in M. musculus in the Netherlands. Resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides is present in R. norvegicus and M. musculus in multiple regions in the Netherlands. The results of this comprehensive study provide a baseline and facilitate trend analyses of Vkorc1 codon 139 mutations and evaluation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies as these are enrolled in the Netherlands.

Exploring rat meat consumption patterns, and perception of risks regarding urban rats; implications for rat-borne zoonoses outbreaks and drug resistant pathogens spread in urban areas of Ghana

“…These include dense human populations, extensive infrastructural development [52], nocturnal and sub-nocturnal rodent behavior, the opportunistic nature of urban rats, and their adeptness at establishing nests in obscure locations within human dwellings, and their prolific reproductive ability. Moreover, the behavioral resistance of rats to toxic baits [53] and the resurgence of pesticide resistant rat populations, the banning of glue traps, and second generation anticoagulants, have further exacerbated the global challenge of rat control [54]. In 2020, the Ghanaian media reported a significant event where approximately ten thousand urban rats were killed overnight in the capital city following a major pesticide incident during the active phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, which was indicative that urban rats’ in the capital city have greatly increased.…”