Relatives,
As we move into summer and spend more time cleaning, organizing, and enjoying our homes, there’s one important health topic to share with you today.
Hantavirus is a serious respiratory illness carried by rodents — especially deer mice. While it’s not common, it can become very serious. The best news? Prevention is simple and something we can all do.
What Is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus spreads when people breathe in dust from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. This often happens when cleaning areas where rodents have been nesting. The good news is that by keeping rodents out of our homes and cleaning safely, we can greatly lower the risk.
4 Simple Steps to Stay Safe
Here are the practical steps from our PSA that every household can follow:
1. Clean up food and water sources Seal food in airtight containers. Wipe up crumbs right away. Don’t leave pet food or dirty dishes out overnight. Rodents love easy access to meals.
2. Eliminate clutter Keep storage areas tidy. Remove piles of paper, cardboard, or fabric that could become cozy nesting spots.
3. Seal your home Close up holes, gaps, and cracks around doors, windows, foundations, and pipes. This helps keep rodents outside where they belong.
4. Clean rodent areas the safe way If you find droppings, nests, or urine, never sweep or vacuum them dry — this can send virus particles into the air. Instead:
- Wear gloves and a mask
- Spray the area with disinfectant (like a bleach solution)
- Let it sit, then wipe it up
Why This Matters in Our Community
Many of our homes are in rural areas where deer mice are common. Taking a few extra minutes to clean and seal up spaces can make a real difference for our families, especially our elders and little ones.
These steps aren’t just about avoiding illness — they’re about caring for our homes and protecting the people we love.
Stay Informed and Share the Message
I encourage you to take a moment this week to walk through your home and check these areas. Small actions today can prevent big problems later.
For more information, visit the CDC’s official page: CDC.gov/hantavirus
Stay safe, stay well, and take care of your home.