HANTAVIRUS AWARENESS
WHY IT MATTERS TO US
In 2015, Shawn Herring’s life was tragically cut short after contracting Hantavirus, a rare but often fatal illness spread by rodents. His passing revealed how little awareness exists about this disease — and how critical prevention and education truly are.
Raising awareness about Hantavirus is one of the core missions of the Shawn Herring Memorial Foundation. By sharing accurate information and practical resources, we hope to protect families and prevent others from experiencing the same loss.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe, sometimes fatal respiratory disease caused by a virus carried by rodents, especially deer mice. People become infected primarily through breathing in dust that has been contaminated by rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials.
How does it spread?
Hantavirus does not spread from person to person. It is transmitted through contact with rodents or their droppings. Common situations include but are not limited to:
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Cleaning out barns, sheds, garages, or cabins after winter
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Disturbing rodent nests or droppings during spring cleaning
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Allowing rodents to enter homes, trailers, or tack rooms
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Camping or hiking in rodent-infested areas
What are some prevention tips?
Protecting your family begins with keeping rodents away from your living and working spaces.
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Seal Up – Block all openings where rodents can enter your home, garage, or outbuildings.
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Clean Up – Remove food sources, garbage, and nesting materials. Store feed and food in rodent-proof containers.
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Trap Up – Use snap traps to control rodent populations in and around your home.
During winter, rodents often seek shelter indoors to hibernate and nest. Take preventative steps early to avoid infestations. If you find rodent droppings, nests, or urine:
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Stop. Do not sweep or vacuum. Sweeping can release contaminated particles into the air.
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Mask Up & Glove Up. Always wear gloves and a mask.
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Disinfect First. Spray droppings and nesting materials with a disinfectant or a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Let soak for at least 5 minutes.
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Wipe & Dispose. Wipe up with paper towels, place in sealed plastic bags, and throw away.
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Disinfect Surfaces. Clean floors, countertops, and other areas with disinfectant.
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Wash Up. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water after removing gloves.
Trusted Resources & Partners
We encourage families to seek professional pest control help when needed. In Northern Colorado, we recommend:
Casey’s Pest Control Services
caseyspestcontrolservices.com
(970) 646-2980
We can't emphasize enough how important it is to stay up to date on current CDC guidelines on Hantavirus prevention. Learn more by clicking on the button below.