America’s 19th rattiest city
The shutdown of San Diego eateries to stem the ravages of Covid-19 may lead to at least one negative impact on health: a burgeoning rat population downtown and elsewhere. That rodents are increasingly being seen along the formerly tourist-populated waterfront, skittering across streets and sidewalks in the light of day, shouldn’t be surprising, based on national findings by the Center for Disease Control. But whether already-overwhelmed San Diego county health officials have time or the money to handle yet another pandemic-related emergency remains in question. “Jurisdictions have closed or limited service at restaurants and other commercial establishments to help limit the spread of COVID-19,” says a CDC alert regarding the growing national infestation. “Rodents rely on the food and waste generated by these establishments.”