12-29-2006, 10:04 AM
Patricia Macomber's booklet, "Rainwater Catchment Systems for Hawai'i", notes that, in some areas of the State, more than half the rats and mongoose have leptospirosis. For more details on occurrence in specific areas, you may have to look for a Dept. of Health analysis.
Rats can find ways to get on your roof (trees, tall shrubs, utility lines) and urinate. They can also make their way onto your catchment tank, which is why you should cover it, preferably with a solid cover, or a fabric cover supported by a frame that keeps the cover from dipping into the tank. Because of the possibility of having rat urine on your roof, you should treat your catchment water for leptospirosis. Chlorine is one treatment, UV light treatment is another.
Rats can find ways to get on your roof (trees, tall shrubs, utility lines) and urinate. They can also make their way onto your catchment tank, which is why you should cover it, preferably with a solid cover, or a fabric cover supported by a frame that keeps the cover from dipping into the tank. Because of the possibility of having rat urine on your roof, you should treat your catchment water for leptospirosis. Chlorine is one treatment, UV light treatment is another.