how is hantavirus spread

Hantavirus is usually spread to humans through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, especially when these materials are disturbed and tiny particles become airborne and are breathed in. It can also spread through rodent bites or, less commonly, by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Transmission varies by hantavirus type and geography—for example, different rodent species carry different strains in different regions. In the Americas, serious illness is often linked to inhaling dust contaminated by infected rodent excreta. Person-to-person spread is rare and not the usual route, though it has been documented for some strains.

To reduce risk: avoid sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings, ventilate enclosed spaces before cleaning, wear gloves and a mask, and use disinfectant to wet contaminated areas before cleanup.