Montana health officials share hantavirus cleaning safety tips

MONTANA — Montana health officials said hantavirus risk can rise when people open cabins, sheds and garages that have been closed for the season.

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services explained that deer mice are the main concern in Montana. The agency said people can be exposed when they breathe in particles from rodent droppings, urine or saliva.

That exposure can happen while cleaning enclosed spaces such as sheds, garages, barns, trailers, crawl spaces or cabins after winter. DPHHS said sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings can push contaminated material into the air.

Instead, the state recommended airing out the space first. It also advised people to spray droppings or nesting material with disinfectant, let it soak, wear a mask and use gloves while cleaning.

DPHHS also recommended sealing holes larger than a dime, storing food in sealed containers and trapping rodents around the home.

Health officials said early symptoms can include fever, fatigue and muscle aches. They said the illness can become more severe if breathing problems develop.