Hantavirus Prevention: Rodent Cleanup and Andes Virus Precautions

Seal holes and gaps, reduce food sources, control rodent infestations, and avoid contact with urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials.

People who clean rodent-contaminated areas, handle rodents, work in pest control, or maintain buildings with infestations should follow stricter precautions.

The key principle is to avoid stirring up dried rodent waste. Do not dry sweep or vacuum rodent droppings before following official cleanup guidance.

If exposure is heavy, occupational, or involves vulnerable people, use local public-health or workplace safety guidance before cleanup.

Andes virus can rarely spread from a sick person after close, prolonged contact. That is why identified contacts may be asked to isolate, test, and report symptoms during a full monitoring period.

People not linked to the outbreak do not need special measures beyond ordinary rodent-exposure prevention unless their public-health authority contacts them.