11 Ways To Prevent And Treat Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome

5. Practice Safe Cleaning and Waste Procedures

To prevent transmission of hantavirus from rodents, experts suggest individuals practice safe cleaning and waste procedures. In particular, caution should be exercised when cleaning in the attic and while cleaning storage sheds and other areas that have not been used for a long time. Individuals attempting to clean up rodent droppings should wear a respirator or mask, and they should pour alcohol or bleach over any droppings or areas mice have been in. These disinfectants will kill hantavirus and prevent the infection from becoming airborne. While wearing disposable gloves, individuals can pick up contaminated material with a damp paper towel. Vacuuming is not safe for this purpose, as it could cause the virus to enter the air. In cases of severe rodent infestation, an exterminator or professional cleaning company should be called to handle this type of cleanup and waste disposal. Patients who have cancer or other conditions that could weaken their immune systems should never attempt to clean up rodent waste themselves, and they should avoid going into areas that have had a recent rodent infestation.

6. Use Effective Rodent Trapping Methods

Beyond just blocking entry points, actively reducing rodent populations inside and around your home is key. Use snap traps, which are generally effective and considered humane when they kill quickly. Place traps perpendicular to walls where rodents often travel, baiting them with peanut butter or oats. Check traps regularly (daily if possible) and handle trapped rodents safely: wear gloves, spray the rodent and trap with disinfectant (like a 1:10 bleach solution), double-bag the rodent, and dispose of it according to local regulations. Consistent trapping helps minimize the source of the virus near living spaces.