Efficacy of two rodenticides against Leishmania reservoir host rat (Psammomys obesus) in the rural area of Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia.

Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) is a serious and increasing public health problem in many parts of Saudi Arabia. Rodent control operations are effective in destroying rodents and reducing the incidence of disease. This study tested the efficacy of zinc phosphide and fenacoum against the reservoir host Psammomys obesus rat. The results showed that both the rodenticides were significantly (P < 0.01) effective in reducing the number of active holes during one year of application.