Washington State University

Pest Control

Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) helps to ensure that pests (structural and health vectors) are controlled in a safe and sanitary manner in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.

EH&S may investigate and identify pest problems, and recommend pest treatments and chemicals.  In addition, EH&S reviews plan and specifications for construction projects to help prevent occurrence of pest problems.

A WSU Pullman department experiencing a pest control problem may contact the University’s pest control contractor. Contact EH&S or Purchasing for the name and telephone number of the contractor.

Yellowjackets, Paper Wasps, and Bees! Oh My!

Late summer is when these stinging insects can become serious pests. If you notice an active nest on campus, please report it to EH&S as soon as possible so that it can be eliminated in a timely manner if necessary. WSU Cooperative Extension has additional information on yellowjackets and paper wasps.

Prevention of West Nile Virus

At WSU Pullman, EH&S collects dead birds for analysis to help prevent West Nile virus.

Outside of Pullman, contact the local health department for information concerning the prevention of West Nile virus.

Prevention of Hantavirus

Hantavirus is a respiratory illness called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome spread primarily by deer mice in the Northwest.  Hantavirus is spread through their droppings, urine, saliva, and nesting materials and attaches to dust particles which can become airborne if disturbed.  Humans may be infected by inhalation of virus contaminated dust, close contact with contaminated material, or deer mice bites.  It is extremely rare, even among people who are consistently exposed to mice and other rodents, and poses not significant health risk to WSU employees provided simple precautions are followed.