‘Tails’ for safe spring cleaning: how to avoid hantavirus from mice – Garfield County, Colorado
Garfield County moved to a new web address in March. Find us then at garfieldcountyco.gov. Domains like this are more trusted, because only official governments can use them.
The cover of the Garfield County Public Health tale, "The House Guest Mouse, 'Tails' for safe spring cleaning." The image depicts a cartoon mouse happily walking toward a home.

‘Tails’ for safe spring cleaning: how to avoid hantavirus from mice

New GCPH video spins a tale of caution while spring cleaning

COMMUNITY NOTICE
March 31, 2026

Spring is in the air, but make sure spring is the only thing in the air when opening up sheds and other spaces where mice may have relocated during the winter. In Colorado, some deer mice may carry hantavirus, a rare but deadly disease characterized by flu-like symptoms that rapidly progress into life-threatening breathing problems.

Avoid sweeping up dust if you see the presence of mice. Follow proper cleaning steps and watch Garfield County Public Health’s video, the “House Guest Mouse, Tales for a Safe Spring Cleaning.” Wear protective gloves and wet down the areas with a bleach and water solution (one part bleach to nine parts water). Keep the area wet for five minutes before beginning cleanup. Wipe up and dispose of all contaminated material. When disposing of dead rodents, always use gloves and place rodents in sealed plastic bags before placing them in the trash.

Homes can be rodent proofed by eliminating food sources and removing abandoned vehicles, brush, wood, and junk piles where rodents may hide. Plug holes and other mouse entryways and use traps, poisons, or, if necessary, hire a professional exterminator. Keep indoor areas clean and store food in rodent-proof containers – this includes pet and livestock food. Store firewood at least 100 feet from the house and keep vegetation around the house well-trimmed.

There is no specific treatment, cure, or vaccine for hantavirus infection. However, individuals who recognize the symptoms and seek prompt medical treatment may have a better chance of recovery.

Garfield County Public Health information is provided online on the Public Health website.