Rodent sightings trigger school closures and protests in Italy

Schools in the Italian regions of Sicily and Calabria are facing hygiene crises following reports of rodent infestations. In Agrigento, parents at the Federico II complex of the Rita Levi Montalcini Institute have begun keeping their children home due to the presence of rats and excrement in classrooms, corridors, and outdoor areas. The parents have issued a formal request to the Municipality of Agrigento, the local Mayor, and health authorities for certified deratization, periodic monitoring, and sanitization, demanding a written response within 24 hours.

In Crotone, the Montessori school complex has been ordered to close by municipal authorities. The closure, scheduled for November 9 and 10, follows the sighting of a rodent and the subsequent suspension of canteen services. Following an inspection by the Crotone Local Health Authority (ASP), officials prescribed comprehensive deratization, disinfection, and sanitization of both internal and external environments, including the removal of waste near the boiler room.