Hantavirus

Key Points:

• Hantavirus is uncommon, but extremely serious and can be fatal
• Mono County averages just under 1 Hantavirus case per year
• Getting rid of mice and their droppings (poop) is the most effective way of preventing Hantavirus
• Safe clean up and disposal of mouse droppings can be accomplished safely and effectively if you take the proper steps

What is Hantavirus? 

Hantavirus spreads through urine, droppings (poop), or saliva of mice. In California, Hantavirus is carried by deer mice specifically, which are common in Mono County.  You are most likely to catch hantavirus indoors, especially in rooms or buildings that have been closed for a long time and don't have air circulation.  

Hantavirus exposure can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) which includes: 

• Early symptoms (1-8 weeks after exposure):

  • fatigue
  • fever
  • muscle aches, especially in the large muscle groups like the thighs, hips, back, and sometimes shoulders
  • headaches
  • dizziness 
  • chills

• Later symptoms (4-10 days after initial phase of illness):

  • coughing
  • shortness of breath
  • tightness in chest as lungs fill with fluid

HPS can be deadly. 38% of people who develop respiratory symptoms may die from the disease.

Residents with flu-like symptoms severe enough to seek medical care should inform the treating provider if they have had significant exposure to rodents and their waste in the preceding 2-6 weeks. 

How can I prevent Hantavirus exposure?

Eliminating hantavirus exposure requires a multi-step process. Because it originates from exposure to rodent droppings (poop), saliva, and urine, removing these from your home and surrounding area is crucial.

You can take the following steps to minimize your risk:   

1.Ventilate the affected space by opening windows, using an air filter, and creating a cross-breeze for at least 30 minutes ​

2. Wet down contaminated area with disinfectants like bleach or lysol and let sit for 5 minutes

• Do NOT vacuum or sweep, as this can stir up particles into air
• Bleach must be mixed up fresh, with at least one-part bleach to 10 parts water
  • See more here: Cleaning and Disinfecting With Bleach

4. Allow disinfectant to stand for at least 5 minutes

5. Wear disposable rubber or latex gloves and a mask (if possible)

• For highly infested areas, use a well-fitting N-95 mask or respirator

6. Mop or clean area with paper towels and promptly dispose of cleaning materials. Be sure to wash hands and clothes after.

• For more information, see here: How to Clean Up After Rodents

7. Set mouse traps and seal any holes and gaps around doors and windows to prevent future rodent entry

• For more information, see here: How to Seal Up to Prevent Rodents

What Does and Does Not Work for Hantavirus Prevention: