By Jamie Martin
As summer temperatures rise, so does the risk of rodent activity across the Western United States. With it comes the threat of hantavirus, a rare but dangerous disease spread by infected rodents, particularly deer mice.
Hantavirus is most commonly contracted when people breathe in dust contaminated by rodent droppings, urine, or nesting materials.
Early symptoms often resemble the flu, including fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. However, they can rapidly worsen into severe breathing problems and respiratory failure.
People who have been in rodent-prone areas and experience these symptoms should seek medical help immediately, as early diagnosis is critical.
Rodents are often found in quiet, hidden corners. Look for small, rice-sized droppings, gnaw marks, shredded paper nests, a musty odour, or scratching sounds at night. These are clear signs of infestation.
“Rodents are incredibly resourceful and can enter homes through openings as small as a dime,” says Dr. Janet Kintz-Early, a Ph.D. Urban Entomologist and advisor to EarthKind®. “Prevention starts with sealing up entry points and removing food sources.
If you spot even minor evidence of activity, take action immediately—rodents reproduce quickly, and the health risks aren’t worth the delay.”
To avoid infestations -
- Seal cracks in doors, windows, and walls.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Eliminate clutter and nesting materials.
- Secure garbage and remove pet food at night.
- Use scent-based deterrents in garages or attics.
Western residents should stay alert and practice these simple steps to keep their homes rodent-free and safe this summer.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National