Prevention

Before you start cleaning

Aerosolizing dust is the main exposure risk. The pre-cleanup steps are designed to stop that from happening.

• Ventilate the space for at least 30 minutes before entering. Open doors and windows.
• Leave during that 30 minutes — do not stay in the area while it ventilates.
• Wear rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves throughout cleanup.
• For heavy contamination or enclosed spaces, additional PPE (an N95 respirator and goggles) is advised.

Safe cleanup steps

Wet methods replace dry sweeping in every step. Disinfect first, then wipe — never the other way around.

• Spray droppings, urine, and nesting material thoroughly with a disinfectant or 1:10 bleach solution.
• Let the disinfectant soak for at least 5 minutes before wiping.
• Use paper towels to pick up the material, then dispose of them in a sealed plastic bag.
• Mop and disinfect floors and countertops in the entire area, not just the visible contamination.
• Wash gloved hands with disinfectant before removing gloves; wash bare hands with soap and water after.

What not to do

The activities that aerosolize the most virus are the ones to avoid.

• Do not sweep, vacuum, or shake out contaminated materials.
• Do not use a leaf blower or pressure washer on dry rodent debris.
• Do not handle rodents bare-handed, alive or dead.

Long-term rodent exclusion

After cleanup, the longer-term work is keeping rodents out of structures and food supplies. Seal gaps larger than a quarter inch around pipes, vents, foundations, and rooflines. Store food and pet food in rodent-proof containers. Keep firewood, debris, and brush a meaningful distance from the structure.