Personal precautions recommended against Hantavirus

Thinking of doing some quick cleanup around your home or the cabin before the summer rolls around? Northern Health is advising residents to take some precautions during their spring-cleaning activities to avoid exposure to Hantavirus.

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease. It is mainly transmitted when mouse droppings, urine or nesting materials are disturbed, sending virus particles into the air where they can be breathed in.

“Although the overall risk of becoming infected by Hantavirus is low, it is important that people take special care in areas where they could potentially become exposed,” said Lucy Beck, Regional Director, Public Health Protection. “The best way to prevent infection is to keep mice from nesting in and around your home, and to learn how to safely clean up after them.”

To help prevent Hantavirus infection, here are a few simple steps to follow:

Keeping mice out

• Wash dishes and cooking items immediately after use, and clean up food spills
• Use traps and seal points of entry into buildings such as barns, sheds, and summer cabins
• Remove grass, brush, and dense shrubbery around your home and outside buildings
• Put garbage into tightly covered containers; keep pet food and water containers covered

Safe clean-up

• Open all doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before cleaning
• Do not sweep or vacuum up droppings, urine, or nesting materials. Instead wet all areas to be cleaned, wipe with a wet towel, and then mop with a disinfectant solution
• Wear rubber or plastic gloves at all times while cleaning
• Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after you take off the gloves

Symptoms of Hantavirus can develop one to six weeks after infection and can resemble severe flu, including fever, body aches, chills, nausea, and shortness of breath. While infections are extremely rare, up to one half of Hantavirus cases may lead to death. Individuals with worsening flu-like symptoms who are seeking medical advice should inform their physician of any recent contact with mice droppings.

For information on-line, please visit www.bchealthguide.org or www.bccdc.org