Skip to content

Residents in Saskatchewan were reminded to be watchful for Hantavirus

Saskatchewan’s provincial government urged residents to take precautions and be mindful about the risk of hantavirus this spring in areas where rodents might be present.

Saskatchewan’s provincial government urged residents to take precautions and be mindful about the risk of hantavirus this spring in areas where rodents might be present. 

Exposure is likely to occur when cleaning enclosed buildings (such as grain bins, sheds, barns, garages, trailers, cottages and homes) or farm equipment and vehicles after winter. 

“Humans can be exposed to hantavirus when inhaling contaminated air caused by the droppings, urine and saliva of infected rodents,” Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. “Hantavirus can cause illness in humans including a lung related illness known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which can be fatal.” 

Symptoms typically start within one to six weeks of exposure and include tiredness, fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

Some people develop severe symptoms, including difficulty with breathing. When someone has a cough, fever or shortness of breath, they should seek medical attention. 

To avoid exposure to hantavirus, be aware of mouse droppings and nesting materials and take precautions whenever cleaning infested areas.

Ventilate the building by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before cleaning; use wet mopping methods and wear rubber or plastic gloves; wear goggles and a well-fitting N-100, R-100 or P-100 (formerly HEPA) type filter mask when cleaning areas contaminated by droppings in a confined space.

Dampen areas contaminated with rodent droppings with bleach disinfectant (one part of bleach to nine parts water). Allow to sit for 10 minutes then remove droppings with a damp mop or cloth.

Avoid using dry cleaning methods such as dusting, sweeping, vacuuming or air-hosing. Steam clean, shampoo or spray upholstered furniture with a detergent, disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water.

Clothes should be washed along with bedding in hot water with detergent.

Reduce the possibilities of rodent infestations by blocking openings that might allow rodents to enter buildings. Store human and animal food, water and garbage in containers with tightly fitted lids. Move woodpiles or other potential hiding places for mice away from homes. 

There have been 35 people with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome reported in Saskatchewan since 1994, 11 of whom died as of May 13, 2020.

More information on hantavirus can be found on the provincial government websiteat www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/hantavirus and HealthLine Online at www.healthlineonline.ca.