Hantavirus Safety in New Mexico: Cleaning Up After Rodents

How people are exposed

According to the CDC, people are usually exposed by breathing in air contaminated with virus from rodent urine, droppings or nesting material, often while cleaning closed-up sheds, cabins or garages.

Cleanup basics from the CDC

Don't sweep or vacuum droppings or nests. Air out closed spaces before you start. Wear rubber or plastic gloves. Spray droppings and nesting material with a disinfectant, or a bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water, until soaked, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Wipe it up with paper towels, throw them away, and disinfect the area. Wash your hands after you take off your gloves. The CDC has extra precautions for heavy infestations.

Prevention: seal up

Public-health agencies recommend keeping rodents out of homes in the first place: seal gaps, remove food sources and nesting sites, and remove the rodents already inside. That's the exclusion work we do.

If you feel sick

If you get sick after being around rodents, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about the exposure. For questions about your situation, contact the NM Department of Health.

Frequently asked questions

Which rodent carries hantavirus in New Mexico?

The deer mouse is the main carrier of the Sin Nombre hantavirus that causes most HPS cases in the U.S., according to the CDC and NMDOH.

Can I vacuum mouse droppings?

No. The CDC advises against sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings and nests because it can put virus particles into the air.

Do you clean up heavy infestations?

Yes. Our crews wear respirators and protective suits and follow public-health cleanup guidance, and we seal the home afterward. We don't provide medical advice.

Sources

This page is general information, not medical, legal or regulatory advice. For health concerns, contact a healthcare provider or the NM Department of Health. For wildlife regulations, contact NM Game & Fish (NMDOW). Last reviewed Oct 2026.