Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that are spread to people through wild rodents. These viruses have been found throughout the Americas, Asia, and Europe.
Rodents are the carriers of hantavirus, which is shed through their urine, feces, and saliva. People get this disease by coming into contact with wild rodent feces or secretions, either by breathing them in or by touching something that has been in contact with them. It is extremely rare for people to spread the disease from one person to another unless they have one specific strain of the virus (out of over 50 strains).
The rodents that carry and spread hantavirus are found worldwide, but they don't get sick from the virus. Hantavirus has also been found in bats, reptiles, fish, shrews, and moles. Dogs and cats can become infected but don't get sick. The virus poses no risk to domestic pets such as guinea pigs. Large animals (like horses, cows, and pigs) don't get this virus.
Prevention of Hantavirus in Animals
Keep areas clean and pest-free.
Seal up openings.
Remove any food or trash that might attract rodents.
Use traps as appropriate.
Wear personal protective gear when entering or cleaning a rodent-infested space.
Use masks or ventilators with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters.
Wear rubber or latex gloves.
Change clothing after working in rodent-infested areas with poor air circulation.
Don't sweep or vacuum rodent droppings.
Spray with 10% bleach solution (1 part household bleach in 9 parts water).
Allow the solution to sit for at least 5 minutes, then wipe.
Important Zoonotic Points Regarding Hantavirus
Rodents are the carriers of hantavirus and spread it via their droppings, urine, or secretions.
People can be infected by breathing in or ingesting contaminated air or products.
Animals don't get sick from this disease.
People almost never spread this to other people.
For More Information
Links to CDC website for safe procedures when rodents are found:
