How can I prevent hantavirus exposure?

Hantavirus prevention is the prevention of two things: rodent contact with your living space, and aerosol exposure when cleaning up after rodents that did get in.

Reduce rodent presence

• Seal holes and gaps larger than 6 mm with steel wool + caulk.
• Store food (including pet food and birdseed) in sealed metal or glass containers.
• Trash in tight-lidded bins; keep bins away from the house.
• Keep grass cut, woodpiles ≥ 30 m from the house and ≥ 30 cm above the ground.
• Set spring traps year-round; check daily.

Cleaning a rodent-infested space — CDC "open up, air out, wet down"

1. Do not sweep, vacuum, or shake out dusty bedding. All three create infectious aerosols.
2. Open all doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before entering. Leave the area while it ventilates.
3. Wear rubber, latex, vinyl, or nitrile gloves. For heavy infestations, wear an N95 / FFP2 respirator and goggles.
4. Mix 1 part household bleach to 9 parts water (or use a commercial disinfectant). Spray droppings, urine, and nests until thoroughly wet. Let soak for 5 minutes.
5. Wipe up with paper towels and place in a sealed plastic bag, then into a second sealed bag for disposal.
6. Mop or sponge the entire area with disinfectant.
7. Wash gloved hands with soap, remove gloves, wash hands again.

Outdoor and travel

Avoid disturbing rodent burrows. Do not sleep on the ground in areas of dense rodent activity. In ANDV-endemic Patagonia and SNV-endemic Four Corners, choose lodging that is well-sealed and well-maintained.