COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A group of students at The Ohio State University is dealing with problem pests and rodents invading their off-campus house.
At First, Jess Bertke thought what she saw was a cat.
"I had somewhat of a panic attack, screamed (and) jumped onto my bed," Bertke said.
It was a gray animal with a tail, but it wasn't a furry friend that Bertke found in the basement of her East Lane Avenue apartment, NBC 4's Lauren Diedrich reported.
"I looked to my right and running down the steps was a giant rat about a foot long and it was greasy," Bertke said.
The incident occurred more than two weeks ago and despite exterminators' efforts, the rats are still waging a rodent war against Bertke and her six roommates.
"We thought the problem was solved until two days later (when) we saw another one on our main floor," she said.
Diedrich spoke with Campus Partners, an organization working with the city, OSU and off-campus neighborhoods. Officials said that off-campus living is a "banquet for rodents." One reason for the abundance of rats is open Dumpsters that are used by many students living so close together.
Cold weather and construction near Bertke's apartment has disturbed the sewers and contributed to perfect conditions for unwanted visitors.
Another issue is that the Columbus Public Health Department cut its rodent control program last fall because of budget woes.
Now, Bertke is wondering if her issue will ever be under control.
"For the near future I guess I'll just find somewhere to sleep," Bertke said.
Anyone having issues with rodents can call the city's help line at 614-645-3111.
Bertke and her roommates said their landlord is working to have exterminators fix the problem.
Stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.
To submit a story idea or news tip, e-mail us at stories@nbc4i.com.
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