Rabies is a very serious disease that affects animals and humans and can result in death if left untreated. Recognizing the dangers associated with rabies, the Delaware Public Health District works to protect the public from the threat of rabies. This is performed by monitoring bite/exposure events, investigating exposures, prohibiting wild/exotic animals in the Health District, and requiring residents to vaccinate their pets against rabies.

While a pest, bed bugs have not been shown to spread disease; therefore, the Delaware Public Health District does not have regulations regarding bed bugs. However, the Health District believes in providing as many resources as possible to help residents who may have a concern. Staff are trained in prevention, identification, remediation and would be happy to talk about techniques that may help you.

If you would like us to help you identify a possible bed bug, please take a picture of it (preferably with a magnifying glass between the lens and the bug), and send the photo to eh@delawarehealth.org.

Annually, the Ohio Department of Agriculture performs activities to manage the population of gypsy moths in Ohio. These efforts are aimed at suppressing, slowing and eradicating the moths, depending on the zone. Treatment activities take place in planes flying around 200 feet above the treetops. More information on ODA’s Gypsy Moth program, including treatment areas and approximate dates, can be found here.