Preparing for cold weather? Rodents are too!

October 24, 2023.Reading time 8 minutes.

As the weather starts to turn, many people start to spend more time indoors. That’s not only true for humans, but also for rats and mice. They’re looking for a place to stay that’s warm, dry, and close to food sources. So, as you’re preparing for winter, take steps now to keep them out of your home.

New case of Hantavirus reported in King County

August 28, 2023.Reading time 10 minutes.

Hantavirus can cause a rare but deadly disease called Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). In Washington state, hantavirus is spread by deer mice.

Public Health is currently investigating a case in a teenage King County resident. This person was hospitalized in early August and is now recovering. The patient reported being exposed to a mouse infestation at his house in Issaquah and also bitten by a rodent in the woods in a residential area in Issaquah, Washington.

Poison is so 1980s: How to protect your children and pets from rodent poisons

October 26, 2022.Reading time 10 minutes.

Wild rats and mice living too close to humans threaten our health. They can contaminate food, spread disease, damage property, and cause electrical fires. It makes good sense to keep rodents away from our homes. However, there are safe – and less safe ways – to get rid of them.

Many people’s first instinct is to use rodenticides – also known as rat or mouse bait – to poison the intruders. Unfortunately, misuse and overuse of these poisons are common and can harm children and pets.

Hantavirus Case Reported in King County

December 30, 2021.Reading time 10 minutes.

Public Health is investigating a case of hantavirus in an adult resident of southeast King County. Hantavirus can cause a rare but deadly disease called Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). Although we are not aware of an increased risk for hantavirus exposure in King County, it is important that people are aware of the risk and symptoms to watch for and know how to identify and properly respond to rodent infestations. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for HPS, so minimizing exposures to rodents and their nests is key.

How to Stay Safe When Cleaning Up After Rodents

May 15, 2020.Reading time 5 minutes.

If you are in the yard, garage or garden, watch for signs of rodents and take precautions against hantavirus exposure when cleaning up after rodents. Also take steps to protect yourself if you are entering a building that has been closed up during Stay at Home orders. We have tips to help.

5 important tips for staying safe when cleaning areas with rodents

March 19, 2018.Reading time 3 minutes.

Some mice (deer mice, specifically) can carry hantavirus in their urine and droppings, This virus is rare, but can be potentially deadly in humans. So, if you are doing your annual spring cleaning and notice signs of infestation, take caution when cleaning it up.