Hantavirus prevention checklist

Three habits prevent almost all hantavirus exposures: don't aerosolize rodent waste, don't sleep where rodents nest, and seal the house before wildlife seeks shelter inside it. Print this and stick it on the fridge.

1 · Rodent-proof the structure

1. Inspect foundation, eaves, vents, utility penetrations — anything bigger than a quarter-inch is a mouse highway.
2. Stuff small gaps with steel wool. Cover larger holes with hardware cloth (¼-in mesh).
3. Replace damaged door sweeps. Mice slip under a 6 mm gap.
4. Check the dryer vent, range-hood vent, and crawl-space access — common entry points.
5. Trim shrubs and remove woodpiles within 100 ft of the foundation. Move bird feeders away from the house.
6. Store all pet food in airtight containers. Don't leave bowls out overnight.

2 · Safe cleanup protocol

1. Open windows/doors and ventilate the affected space for at least 30 minutes before entering.
2. Don't sweep, don't vacuum dry droppings — both aerosolize the virus.
3. Wear an N95 respirator and rubber or vinyl gloves. Long sleeves.
4. Mix 1 part household bleach to 9 parts water. Spray droppings, urine stains, and nests until saturated.
5. Let the disinfectant soak for 5 minutes. Wipe up with disposable paper towels.
6. Double-bag all waste (gloves last) and dispose with regular trash.
7. Mop floors and counters with the same disinfectant. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.

3 · Travel and cabins

• If your cabin or rental shows rodent signs (droppings, gnawed packaging, nests) — air it out 30 min, then wet-clean before staying.
• Sleep on a raised cot rather than the floor in rural shelters.
• Don't handle dead or trapped rodents without gloves.
• Camping in the US Southwest, Patagonia, Northern Europe, or East Asia — keep food sealed in hard containers, off the ground.

Red flags — call a clinician

If any of the following appear within 1–8 weeks of suspected rodent exposure, contact a clinician or emergency department and explicitly mention possible hantavirus exposure:

• Fever, severe muscle aches, fatigue 1–8 weeks after suspected exposure
• Shortness of breath, dry cough, or rapid breathing
• Severe abdominal pain or vomiting that won't settle
• Lower back pain with reduced urination (HFRS form)

Sources. CDC — Cleaning rodent-infested areas, CDC — Prevention, WHO — Hantavirus. Last reviewed 2026-05-07.

Disclaimer. This checklist is for general public-health information only. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have symptoms or a confirmed exposure, contact a clinician or public-health authority.