Rats Swarm Streets Shut Down Due to COVID-19 in Japan

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] In Japan, rat swarms have appeared on streets deserted due to shutdowns caused by the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). As restaurants and other establishments closed, the rats came out onto the streets in search of food.

According to major foreign media on the 28th (local time), rat swarms were spotted on the streets of Kabukicho in Tokyo, where bars and entertainment facilities had closed. Reports stated, "There is no evidence that rat swarms spread COVID-19, but they can carry other diseases."

Similar scenes were broadcast on NHK. NHK reported that dozens of rats are seen every night in the bustling area near Kokura Station in Kitakyushu City, where businesses have suspended operations due to the impact of COVID-19.

The rat swarms roamed the empty streets devoid of people and approached garbage bags. When they sensed human presence, the rats quickly hid, but after people disappeared, they gathered again around the food waste.

Tsutomu Tanikawa, chairman of the Rodent Control Association, said, "We believe that rats have come out onto the streets in search of food since restaurants closed," adding, "When there are few people around and the rats are hungry, their vigilance decreases, causing them to come out onto the streets." He further noted, "This is not just a problem in Japan but is happening worldwide."

Takao Koesuka, a health official in Kitakyushu City, stated, "The rat population in this city has not significantly increased."

Meanwhile, the Japanese government declared a state of emergency on the 8th, lasting until May 6, for seven metropolitan areas including Tokyo due to the spread of COVID-19. On the 16th, the declaration was expanded nationwide, requesting residents through local governments to refrain from going out, work from home, and for non-essential stores to close.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.