Use caution if you discover a mouse den while cleaning
Spring is here and that primordial drive to throw out the old and bring in the new grips us like a pitbull on a bone.
The next time you are cleaning your home and discover a mouse den, think twice before sweeping up fecal matter left behind.
The Center for disease Control and Prevention, found that mice are the most common carrier of the rare disease called Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
This virus is primarily transmitted to people through contaminated air.
This happens when fresh rodent droppings or nesting materials are stirred up and become airborne. Since 1993 this disease has killed more than 80 people in the United States.
Symptoms of the Hantavirus quickly escalates to a fever, dizziness, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, fatigue, and if not treated — death.
Well now that I've totally scared the britches off you, don't panic.
Below are several tips for dealing with this issue in a safe manner:
A. Never sweep or vacuum dry droppings. Thoroughly wet the contaminated area with a good disinfectant (bleach). Before the area dries, wipe or mop up the droppings.
B. Don't touch dead mice or their droppings without using gloves. Always spray the mouse and the trap with a disinfectant and place it in a plastic bag. Make sure the bag is sealed and tossed in the trash.
C. Gloves should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Don't forget to wash your hands throughly.
If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabric and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.
If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Ser-vices (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?
Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services.