Hantavirus Fact Sheet
North Dakota Department of Health

The North Dakota Department of Health recommends the following precautions to reduce rodent exposure and to minimize the risk of hantavirus infection:  

·        Prevent rodents from entering the home by sealing, covering or screening openings larger than one-quarter inch.

·        Keep food (including pet food) and water covered and stored in rodent-proof metal or thick plastic.  Make sure containers have tight-fitting lids.  Clean up spilled food and keep all dishes clean.

·        Store garbage inside homes in rodent-proof containers with tight-fitting lids.

·        Dispose of trash and clutter in rodent-proof containers elevated at least 12 inches off the ground.

·        Place three inches of gravel under the base of mobile homes to discourage rodent burrowing.

·        If possible, place woodpiles 100 feet away from the house and elevate woodpiles at least 12 inches above the ground.

If you are cleaning out a rodent-infested cabin or other building, the following guidelines can minimize the risk of infection:

·        Before cleaning, ventilate the building, but be sure not to blow dust around.

·        Wear coveralls, rubber boots, rubber or plastic gloves, goggles and an appropriate respirator, if needed.

·        Trap rodents using spring traps.

·        Spray rodents, traps, droppings, nests, foods or other rodent-infested objects with a solution of bleach and water (one and one-half cups bleach to a gallon of water) or a diphenol disinfectant such as Lysol.

·        Let the rodent-infested material soak thoroughly, then place it in a plastic bag and seal the bag.  Place the sealed bag in another plastic bag and seal the outer bag.

·        Burn, bury or place the discarded materials in a sealed garbage can for disposal in a landfill.

·        Do not vacuum until all surfaces have been disinfected.  Carpets should be commercially cleaned or shampooed.

·        Use detergent and water to clean countertops.  After drying, they can be wiped down with a household disinfectant.

·        Remove furniture that contains inaccessible rodent nests. 

For more information, call Larry Shireley, state epidemiologist, North Dakota Department of Health, at 701.328.2694.