How to Protect Yourself Against Hantavirus: Cleaning & Disinfecting Tips

by Dr. Jen Caudle

Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried by certain rodents, particularly deer mice, that can cause serious illness in humans. People typically become infected by breathing in dust contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents, or less commonly through a rodent bite.

In the United States, the most common form of the disease is called

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can rapidly progress to severe breathing difficulties as the lungs fill with fluid. HPS is a medical emergency with a fatality rate of roughly 30–40%, and there is no specific treatment, vaccine, or cure — care is supportive, often requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation.

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The best way to prevent infection is to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings by sealing holes in homes, storing food securely, and carefully cleaning any areas of rodent activity using wet methods (such as spraying with disinfectant) rather than sweeping or vacuuming, which can stir up infectious particles into the air.

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Here are the CDC Guidelines for Protecting Yourself Against Hantavirus: (click below)

https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/media/pdfs/2025/01/HantavirusBrochure-508.pdf

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I know Hantavirus may seem scary, but with the proper prevention and diligence, it can be prevented.

To learn more about Hantavirus symptoms and transmission etc click here: https://youtu.be/Gmoasjpf_K4

Wondering if Hantavirus will be the next pandemic? Click here: https://youtu.be/MbVqsw_eSPM

How Did the Hantavirus Outbreak REALLY Begin? Click Here:

https://youtu.be/ElsF5Ysibf4

Will Ivermectin and vitamin D cure Hantavirus?

Click here: https://youtu.be/ne8tiiwR8nU

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I hope this is helpful. Please sure to share this information with others-

Best,

Dr. Jen Caudle

Dr. Jen Caudle is a board-certified Family Physician, Associate Professor at Rowan University, TV health expert, and video creator who loves pizza and tacos (in moderation, of course). Follow her on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Also, sign up to receive her free weekly health newsletter at drjencaudle.com.