Hantavirus

Hantaviruses are viruses found in urine, droppings and saliva of wild rodents, most commonly in the deer mouse. The virus is usually spread to humans when particles of infected saliva, urine or feces are inhaled. The virus may be inhaled during contact with the rodents or from breathing airborne dust particles generated when rodent excrement is disturbed. People may also become infected if they come into contact with contaminated materials through contact with broken skin or through the membranes lining the eyelids and eyeball.

Hantavirus infections are rare, but can be very serious and even deadly. Those infected by the virus often develop flu-like symptoms that turn into a dangerous condition after two-three days. Symptoms can include fever, nausea, vomiting, aches and shortness of breath and may appear from five to 45 days (the average is between 14 to 30 days) after exposure to the virus.

Deer mice can be found in homes, buildings, cars, equipment, firewood and barns. The following activities can increase your chances of exposure to hantavirus:

• sweeping, vacuuming, using compressed air in areas contaminated with rodent feces and urine
• using previously vacant dwellings
• living in dwellings with an indoor rodent population

To reduce risks associated with exposure, treat all mice droppings as being potentially contaminated with hantavirus. Wear disposable protective clothing and gloves, rubber boots and a disposable N95 respirator. If the area is heavily contaminated with rodent droppings, use powered air-purifying (PARP) or air-supplied respirators with P100 filters and eye or face protection. Soak the area with a disinfectant solution – 110 solution of sodium hypochlorite (household bleach). Scoop contaminated material and place it in a plastic bag that’s sealed for disposal. Disinfect personal protective equipment (PPE) used to remove the contaminant. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.