Use the wet method when cleaning rodent nesting areas.
This disease can be transferred to people by inhaling dust particles from infected rodent droppings or urine.
So taking the extra time to clean nesting areas and droppings using the wet method.
Using throw away damp cloths, sanitary sprays or bleach cleaners.
Do not sweep or vacuum. This blows particles into the air.
Be cautious dusting and sweeping cabin rentals when traveling.
And always keep food containers closed and food scraps cleaned up.
Back in 2012 an outbreak was reported at Yosemite National Park with ten people infected, three of which were fatal.
Deer mice are usually found in rural areas, and field mice are usually found in the city.
But that’s usually, and I probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. Would you?
So it’s good to be cautious when cleaning, wherever you are!
How rare is the rodent carrying disease, hantavirus?
Its not very rare at all, in 2025 there was warning in San Diego County, of a deer mouse that had tested positive for the hantavirus in a local park.
And while deaths due to hantavirus are not that common, it’s important to know that the possibility of illness is there.
So knowing how to clean and take precautions is important.
Can dogs and cats get the hantavirus?
No, this is a rodent to human virus.
But dogs and cats can bring you an infected rodent.
The disease is spread by rodent droppings or urine. So having an infected rodent in your home will definitely increase those chances.