Safe Work Practices > Hantavirus

Date Reviewed: February 21, 2023

Hantavirus is a serious and possibly fatal disease carried and left by deer mice and possibly other rodents. It is a flu-like illness with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, cough, headache, nausea and vomiting. Pneumonia and heart function may also be symptoms. Symptoms may not show up for two to six weeks after the exposure. Entry into the body is primarily through inhalation from rodent droppings or other secretions. When working in enclosed, potentially affected enclosures, precautions include:

•Keeping work areas and equipment well ventilated. Remove equipment to well ventilated areas if possible.

•Wear respiratory protective equipment (generally using a well fitted dust mask).

•Wear gloves, disposable coveralls, goggles and rubber gloves. Do not remove the mask until all other PPE has been removed in a clean area and properly disposed of.

•Spray all debris and used PPE with disinfectant and double plastic bag and tie.

•Keep areas wetted down if possible.

•Avoid causing dirt or particles to become airborne.

•Log and document exposure time, date and place.