Cases of hantavirus are rare, so it pops up in the news only every few years in our region. The shocking mortality rate from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, or HPS, makes for morbid reading (and solid clickbait for news outlets, ensuring its coverage when a case crops up).
HPS causes fluid accumulation in the lungs, resulting in death for more than one in three that contract the virus. This is why hantavirus is taken seriously by contractors that clean up rodent infestations. Hantavirus is carried by an estimated one in six deer mice in the Pacific Northwest; as they are more adapted to country areas than the common house mouse, structures in rural areas are the most likely places to encounter their feces and urine. Sweeping or disturbing these areas dislodges dust, which is inhaled by workers cleaning up behind the deer mice. This is the most common route of infection, and can be prevented by wetting the area with a bleach solution or appropriately labeled disinfectant prior to cleaning. Proper PPE is critical, especially where large infestations are present. Complete guidelines on hantavirus cleanup are available from the CDC. Follow the “heavy rodent infestation” section for optimum safety.
For serious infestations, it is best to call an experienced professional with the proper equipment. Call or text us at 208-298-9171 for a consultation – we’re here to help!