Saskatchewan Residents Reminded to Take Precautions for Hantavirus

Saskatchewan residents are being reminded to take precautions against hantavirus as they start their spring cleanup. Hantavirus infection is caused by breathing in contaminated airborne particles from the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected deer mice. It can cause a rare, but potentially fatal, lung disease known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

"Anyone cleaning storage sheds or recreational vehicles that have been sitting all winter should be aware and take precautions against Hantavirus," said Dr. David Torr, Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) Medical Health Office. "The virus is airborne, so it is important that if you find evidence of mice or rodent infestation, to wear a mask and gloves when cleaning and most importantly, wet down all surfaces before sweeping or cleaning to prevent the inhalation of airborne particles."

When cleaning rodent-infested areas, the SHA advises people to avoid activities that raise dust and prevent direct contact and breathing in air particles that may be contaminated. Farmers, grain handlers, cottagers, and homeowners are the most likely to be exposed to the virus.

The following precautions should be taken when cleaning outside buildings such as sheds, and unoccupied dwellings such as cabins where evidence of rodent infestation is found: 

• ventilate the building by opening doors and windows, and then leave the area for at least 30 minutes before cleaning;
• avoid using dry cleaning methods such as dusting, sweeping, vacuuming or air-hosing;
• use wet mopping methods and wear rubber or plastic gloves;
• wear goggles and a well-fitting N-95 type filter mask, an industrial N95 mask is recommended, when cleaning areas contaminated by mouse droppings;
• dampen areas contaminated with rodent droppings with bleach disinfectant and remove droppings with a damp mop or cloth;
• steam clean, shampoo or spray upholstered furniture with a detergent, disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water; and
• wash exposed clothes and bedding with detergent in hot water.

Hantavirus can affect anyone who comes into contact with mouse droppings. Symptoms usually start within one to six weeks of exposure and include fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Some people develop severe symptoms that can be life-threatening.  Seek medical attention immediately if you have a cough, fever and shortness of breath.

Throughout the year, you can minimize the presence of all rodents by:

• reducing the availability of food sources or nesting materials;
• by preventing rodents from entering the home and other buildings
• storing human and animal food, water and garbage in pest-resistant containers with tightly fitted lids; and
• move woodpiles or other potential hiding places for mice away from your home.

Hantavirus infections are rare but serious.  Between 1994 and 2024, 38 cases of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome were reported in Saskatchewan; 13 of those cases were fatal.  Case numbers include preliminary data for 2024 and are subject to change. 

For more information on hantavirus, visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/hantavirus and HealthLine Online at www.healthlineonline.ca. For advice on symptoms or when to seek care, call HealthLine 811.