Author: Zachary DeVries
Planning Unit: Entomology
Major Program: Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities (general)
Outcome: Initial Outcome
COVID-19 has caused unparalleled harm and disruption, the likes of which our society has never seen. To assist Kentuckians and the pest control industry, I worked to produce a set of recommendations for both the public and pest control operators to ensure we continue to manage pests in and around homes, but we also take the necessary steps to ensure people remain safe and healthy. This work was featured on the UKy website, the National Pest Management Association website. and several trade journals (PCT, PMP). Based off of these recommendations, I have received multiple verbal reports of pest control operators taking extra steps and precautions to ensure the health and safety of their clients, along with homeowners who have changed the way they think about pest control in light of the current challenges.