Prevention Guide
Effective strategies to prevent hantavirus infection.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for hantavirus, making prevention the most critical strategy. Reducing exposure to rodents and their droppings is the most effective way to prevent infection.
Rodent Control in Your Home
- Seal all entry points - close gaps larger than 6mm in walls, foundations, and around pipes, wires, and vents
- Store food in rodent-proof containers and keep pet food covered
- Eliminate rodent nesting sites - clear debris, woodpiles, and vegetation from around your home
- Use snap traps and check them daily; avoid using poison that could harm pets or children
Safe Cleaning Procedures
- Air out enclosed areas for 30 minutes before cleaning
- Wear rubber or plastic gloves, a mask, and protective clothing
- Spray rodent droppings with disinfectant or bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) before wiping
- Avoid sweeping or vacuuming - this aerosolizes viral particles
- Mop floors with disinfectant; wash all bedding in hot water if contaminated
Outdoor Protection
- Avoid dusty areas where rodents have been active
- Wear an N95 mask when cleaning rodent-infested spaces
- Keep yards and storage areas clean to discourage rodent populations
- When camping, sleep on elevated surfaces and store food in rodent-proof containers
Workplace Safety
- Jobs with higher risk include: pest control, farming, construction, forestry, and wildlife management
- Always use appropriate PPE - gloves, masks, and protective clothing
- Follow workplace protocols for rodent control and area cleaning
- Report any rodent sightings or infestations to supervisors