Preventing Hantavirus
The virus is shed by infected rodents in their urine, droppings, and saliva. When fresh rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials are stirred up, tiny dust particles containing the virus get into the air which can be inhaled. You cannot get hantavirus from another person.
Rodent control in and around the home is the best way to prevent hantavirus infection.
- Seal gaps around roofs, attics, basements, windows, doors, foundations, vents, air conditioners, and under sinks and other pipes. Note, if you trap inside your home, but do NOT seal up rodent entry holes, new rodents will enter the dwelling.
- Set snap traps in places where mice, nesting materials, urine or droppings have been seen.
- Wear rubber or plastic gloves when handling dead rodents or rodent droppings.
- Spray dead mouse, urine or droppings with a disinfectant or a mixture of 1 1/2 cups household bleach and 1 gallon of water. Soak for 5 minutes before wiping up with a paper towel or rag.
- Place the paper towel, mouse, trap and nesting materials in a plastic bag and seal it. Place in a second bag and seal that as well.
- Mop or sponge the area with a disinfectant or bleach solution. Don't use vacuum cleaners or brooms, since they may create aerosols. Wash gloved hands with soap and water before removing gloves; wash hands with soap and water after taking off gloves.
- Reduce rodent food sources and nesting sites by keeping your home and yard free of junk and rubbish. Use thick plastic or metal containers with tight lids for garbage and for storing pet food.
For more detailed instructions see the department's hantavirus fact sheet.
