Hantavirus Prevention: Protect Yourself and Your Family
Prevention is the most effective strategy against hantavirus infection. By understanding how the virus spreads and implementing proven protective measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of exposure.
How Hantavirus Spreads
Hantaviruses are spread to people mainly through aerosolized virus that is shed in rodent urine, feces, and saliva. The virus becomes airborne when these materials are disturbed, and is then inhaled by humans. Less commonly, infection can occur through a bite from an infected rodent.
Rodent Urine
Primary transmission source
Droppings
Become airborne when disturbed
Saliva
Aerosolized particles
Essential Prevention Steps
Seal Your Home
Close all gaps and holes in your home or garage larger than 1/4 inch. Use steel wool, caulk, or wire mesh to block entry points.
Safe Cleanup Protocol
Never sweep or vacuum rodent droppings. Wear gloves, spray with disinfectant, let sit 5 minutes, then wipe up with paper towels.
Use Protection
Wear an N95 respirator mask, rubber gloves, and eye protection when cleaning areas potentially contaminated by rodents.
Disinfect Properly
Use a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or EPA-registered disinfectant. Never mix bleach with ammonia.
Control Rodents
Use traps in and around your home. Check traps regularly. Dispose of dead rodents by spraying with disinfectant first.
Travel Precautions
Avoid sleeping in areas with rodent infestations. Check cabins and shelters for signs of rodents before staying overnight.
High-Risk Areas & Activities
🏠 Indoor Risk Areas
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Attics and garages
- Storage sheds and barns
- Cabins and vacation homes
- Areas with visible rodent droppings
🌲 Outdoor Risk Areas
- Wooded and rural areas
- Fields with tall grass
- Campsites and hiking trails
- Areas near rodent burrows
- Abandoned buildings
Stay Informed, Stay Protected
Monitor outbreak zones and get real-time updates with our interactive hantavirus tracker.
View Outbreak Map