Step 1 — Seal entry points
Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/4 inch. Inspect and seal:
- Around utility pipes, vents, and cables
- Foundation cracks and gaps under doors (use weatherstripping)
- Attic and crawlspace vents (cover with 1/4-inch hardware cloth)
- Chimney openings
Step 2 — Remove food and shelter
- Store all food (including pet food) in sealed metal or thick plastic containers
- Wipe up crumbs and spills immediately
- Keep trash in sealed bins with tight lids
- Clear brush, woodpiles, and debris at least 100 feet from the house
- Trim grass and overgrown vegetation
Step 3 — Reduce existing populations
- Use snap traps in areas with rodent activity (along walls, in cabinets)
- Avoid glue traps and live traps — handling live or dying rodents increases exposure risk
- Wear gloves to dispose of trapped rodents; double-bag and place in outdoor trash
- If infestation is large, contact a licensed pest control professional
Step 4 — Safe cleanup of rodent waste
Never sweep or vacuum dry rodent waste. This aerosolizes the virus.
- Ventilate the area for at least 30 minutes before entering. Open doors and windows.
- Wear PPE: rubber/latex gloves, N95 respirator, eye protection.
- Spray droppings, urine, and nesting material with a 1:10 bleach-water solution (or a registered disinfectant). Soak for at least 5 minutes.
- Wipe up with paper towels. Place all waste in a sealed plastic bag.
- Mop or sponge the area with the disinfectant solution.
- Wash bedding/clothing exposed to rodents in hot water and detergent.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after removing PPE.
Step 5 — Special cases
- Heavy infestations or sealed cabins: consider a professional cleanup with PAPR/HEPA equipment.
- Outbuildings (sheds, barns): ventilate for an hour or more before entering.
- Vehicles: if rodents have nested in HVAC systems, professional cleaning is recommended.
For step-by-step protocols, see CDC's "Cleaning Up After Rodents" guide. If you suspect you've been exposed, monitor symptoms for 6 weeks and see symptoms for warning signs.