The Vermont Health Department is reminding residents to be cautious when cleaning rodent infested areas after a person contracted a virus while in the state according to NEWS 10. The individual was most likely exposed to rodent droppings while cleaning up a seasonal home in August. 

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a serious respiratory disease caused by an infection with a type of hantavirus. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, headaches, muscle aches, dizziness and chills followed by coughing and shortness of breath. According to Vermont officials, approximately one-third of people who have Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome die from the disease. 

In the United States, deer mice and the white-footed mouse, most common in the Northeast are the vectors of the virus. These rodents shed the virus in their urine, droppings, and saliva. The infection is transmitted to people when they breathe air contaminated with the virus which occurs when fresh rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials are stirred up and their particles become airborne according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).

Researchers also believe that people may be able to contract the virus after touching something that has been contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva and then touching their nose or mouth; or if they eat food contaminated by urine, droppings, or saliva from an infected rodent.

The NPMA recommends these tips to keep homes rodent-free this winter:

•  Seal cracks and holes on the outside of your home to help prevent rodents from finding easy entryways. Pay special attention to areas where utilities and pipes enter the home. Replace loose mortar and weather stripping around the basement foundation and windows.
• Don't build rodent attractions near your home. Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home and five inches off the ground. Keep shrubberies cut back from the house.
• Rodents can hide in clutter, so keep areas clear and store boxes off of the floor. Keep food in rodent-proof containers.
• If you find rodent feces, hear sounds of scurrying in the walls or observe other signs of an infestation, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect and treat the pest problem.

If evidence of a rodent infestation is found, contact your local Albany pest professional to outline the best prevention plan and elimination techniques. Thomas Pest Services offers rodent services, rodent removal and services to seal out rodents. Rodents and Hantavirus are a serious threat and should be left to a professional. Thomas Pest Services offers free inspections to Columbia, Albany, Fulton, Schenectady, Renneselear, Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties.