How exposure happens — and how to reduce it
Hantavirus most often spreads when contaminated dust from rodent droppings, urine, or saliva is breathed in. Safe cleaning and rodent-proofing dramatically reduce risk.
Main exposure routes
Breathing contaminated dust
Inhaling dust from rodent urine, droppings, or nesting material is the main route of exposure.
Cleaning enclosed spaces with rodent signs
Sheds, cabins, garages, basements, barns, attics, and storage rooms with rodent activity carry the highest risk.
Touching contaminated material
Touching contaminated surfaces and then your mouth, nose, or eyes can transfer virus particles.
Rodent bites or scratches
Rare, but bites or scratches from infected rodents can transmit the virus.
Person-to-person (Andes virus only)
Andes virus in South America has documented person-to-person transmission in specific close-contact situations. Other hantaviruses are not known to spread between people.
How to clean rodent droppings safely
Based on CDC guidance for cleaning up after rodents.
- 1
Ventilate the area
Open doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before entering. Leave the space and let fresh air move through.
- 2
Wear protective gloves
Use rubber, latex, vinyl, or nitrile gloves. For heavy contamination, use an N95 respirator and goggles.
- 3
Do not sweep or vacuum dry droppings
Both actions can release contaminated dust into the air, where the virus can be inhaled.
- 4
Spray droppings and nests with disinfectant
Use a household disinfectant or a freshly made 1:10 bleach-and-water solution. Soak the material thoroughly.
- 5
Let the disinfectant sit
Allow at least 5 minutes of contact time so the surface is properly treated.
- 6
Wipe or pick up material carefully
Use paper towels or a damp cloth. Avoid stirring up dust.
- 7
Seal waste in plastic bags
Double-bag droppings, nesting material, and used cleaning supplies. Dispose with regular trash.
- 8
Disinfect surfaces and items
Wipe down nearby countertops, floors, and any items that may have been contaminated.
- 9
Wash hands thoroughly
After removing gloves, wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- 10
Prevent future rodent entry
Seal holes ≥6 mm, store food in sealed containers, manage outdoor woodpiles, and set traps as needed.
Rodent-proofing checklist
- Seal exterior gaps and cracks ≥6 mm with steel wool, hardware cloth, or sealant.
- Store food (including pet food) in sealed metal or thick plastic containers.
- Keep woodpiles, compost, and debris at least 30 m from the home.
- Trim vegetation and grass close to the foundation.
- Use snap traps in spaces with rodent activity; avoid handling trapped rodents bare-handed.
- Air out and clean infrequently used cabins, sheds, and vehicles before extended use.
These are general public-health prevention steps. They are not personal medical advice. If you have had a heavy or unusual rodent exposure and feel unwell, contact a healthcare professional and mention the exposure.