Commensal and wild rodents in an urban area of Argentina

The aim of this study was to determine the rodent species, distribution, and abundance in an urban area, in relation to epidemiology risk or damage, so as to elaborate a control program. The first sampling was done between May and July of 1998 on 31 vacant lots, 5 rubbish dumps, 15 stream banks, 18 railway banks and 28 vacant areas. Between August 1999 and June 2000 seasonal samples were taken in the same habitats. At each capture site 20 snap traps and 10 live traps were installed. Of 1253 animals captured, 74% were commensal rodents (Mus domesticus, Rattus rattus and Rattus norvergicus) and 26% were wild rodents (Calomys musculinus, Akodon dolores, A. azarae and C venustus). M. domesticus was the population that numerically predominated in every sampled habitat. C musculinus was the second most abundant species and its distribution was related to open space (vacant areas, railway banks, stream banks and rubbish dumps). The basic information found by this work will allow us to consider and measure the risk of a possible human infection in a specific area. Thus, human diseases can be prevented by controlling rodent reservoirs and/or by avoiding contact between rodents and humans. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.