Rats could be real winners at the Olympics

Building work for the 2012 Games is helping fuel an explosion in the rat population, experts warned today.

They say the problem is so bad it could lead to major rodent problems once the Games get under way.

New research from the National Pest Technicians Association shows an increase of 38 per cent in rats in the capital. Experts say building works, decaying sewers and litter have caused the increase. The animals also breed quickly, reaching sexual maturity in just eight weeks. A pair can produce 2,000 offspring a year.

The association says the problem is now so bad it could affect the Games. "It is a real worry that with 2012 approaching, the rat problem is so bad in London," said John Davison, the association's chief executive. "All of the world's eyes are going to be on London, and it won't reflect well if there is a big rodent problem."

He added: "The problem is that many people rely on bait traps. However, if there is a ready supply of fast food on the floor people have dropped, rats have no need to go looking for food."

The report warns that the health of Londoners could be affected. Barrie Sheard of the association added: "The fact that rodent problems are so bad has to be a source of particular public health concern."

Rats carry salmonella, roundworm and Weil's disease, whose symptoms are flu-like, with a severe persistent headache. If left untreated, Weil's disease can result in damage to the liver and kidneys.