Vector Control
Insects, Rodents and Other Pests
For additional information, contact the Gallatin City-County Health Department, Environmental Health Services at (406) 582-3120 or ehs@gallatin.mt.gov
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Gallatin City-County Health Department's primary concern is to protect the public's health. A vector carries and transmits disease. Many insects, rodents and other pests can be vectors. Controlling the "Vector" is very important to help prevent the spread of diseases.
 Bed BugsBed bugs are small, elusive, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. They commonly nest in mattresses and furniture where people sleep and are mainly active at night when they can feed unnoticed. Bed bugs are not known to carry or transmit disease. However, people can have allergic reactions to bed bug bites.
Spiders
Spiders are a common pest and some can be poisonous. The Gallatin County Extension Office is your best resource for identification and advice on how to deal with spiders as well as other insects.
Hantavirus
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is an acute and often fatal inectious respiratory disease that is transmitted to humans by certain species of mice and rats.
Rabies
Rabies is an infectious and sometimes fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of humans and other mammals. People can get rabies if they are bitten by an animal with rabies (raccoon, skunk, fox, coyote, bat). Although rare, it is also possible to get rabies if infectious material (i.e. saliva) gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth or a wound.
Tick-borne Diseases
In Montana, ticks carry two potentially serious diseases: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia. Lyme Disease is not typically found in Montana, but travelers should be aware that it is prevelant in other regions of the United States.
 West Nile VirusWest Nile Virus causes inflamation of the brain and can be transmitted to humans by mosquitos. West Nile Virus has been detected in Montana. Mosquitos can transmit other diseases to humans, such as malaria and yellow fever, so people need to take precautions when they travel.
If you have been exposed and have questions or concerns, or are exhibiting symptoms, contact your primary care physician.
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