2. Hantavirus: A Deadly Disease Spread by Rodents
Advice from the Experts – Cleaning a Rodent-Infested Area
that May Harbor the Hantavirus

3. Recommendations For Lessening Exposure
When cleaning a rodent-infested area that may harbor the
Hantavirus:
 Use PPE (personal protective equipment)-respirator, gloves and goggles.
 Gloves should be rubber, latex, vinyl or nitrile gloves.
 Do not stir up dust by vacuuming, sweeping, or any other means.
 Thoroughly wet contaminated areas with a bleach solution or household disinfectant.
 Hypochlorite (bleach) solution: Mix 1 and ½ cups of household bleach in 1 gallon of water.
 Once everything is wetted down, take up contaminated materials-you may want to use
damp paper towels-and then mop or sponge the area with bleach solution or household
disinfectant.

4. Recommendations For Lessening Exposure Cont.
When cleaning a rodent-infested area that may harbor the
Hantavirus:
 Spray dead rodents with disinfectant and then double-bag them along with all cleaning
materials. Bury, burn, or throw out the rodents in an appropriate waste disposal system.
 You may want to contact your local or state health department concerning other appropriate
disposal methods.
 Disinfect gloves with disinfectant or soap and water before taking them off.
 After taking off the clean gloves, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water (or use a
waterless alcohol-based hand rub when soap is not available).

5. Vacuuming Rodent Droppings
Can I use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean up rodent-contaminated
areas?
HEPA vacuums are not recommended since they blow air around and may
create aerosolized particles that may be breathed in.

6. How do I clean papers, books, and delicate items?
Books, papers, and other items that cannot be cleaned with a
liquid disinfectant or thrown away should be left outdoors in
the sunlight for several hours or in an indoor area free of rodents for
approximately one week before final cleaning.
After that time, the virus should no longer be infectious. Wear rubber, latex, or
vinyl gloves and wipe the items with a cloth moistened with disinfectant.
Alternatively, wash clothing or stuffed animals in the washing machine using
hot water and regular detergent. Laundry detergent can break down the virus's
lipid envelope, rendering it harmless. Machine dry laundry on a high setting or
hang it to air-dry in the sun.

7. How do I clean rugs, carpets and
upholstered furniture?
Disinfect carpets and upholstered furniture with a disinfectant or with a
commercial-grade steam cleaner or shampoo.

8. Possible Exposure?
What precautions should I take if I think I have been
exposed to Hantavirus?
If you have been exposed to rodents or rodent
infestations and have symptoms of fever,
deep muscle aches, and severe shortness of breath,
see your doctor immediately.
Inform your doctor of possible rodent exposure
so that he/she is alerted to the possibility of
rodent-borne diseases, such as HPS.

9. Reference
http://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps/index.html
Article compliments of National Pest Management Association, of which we
are a member.

10. About Earth-Kind, Inc.
We create natural, proactive alternatives to protect the spaces in
which we live, work and play from pests and odors. Our
mission is to preserve the good and prevent the rest.
•WE PREVENT pests from entering the home and control foul
odors.
•WE PRESERVE health and happiness by guaranteeing safety
for humans, pets and the earth.
•WE PROTECT spaces and valuables, creating harmony and
giving peace of mind.

11. Connect With Us
For more information on getting rid of rodents and
protecting your pets & family against dangerous
rodent control methods – visit our website
www.earthkind.com
1.800-583.2921