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Hantavirus can cause flu-like symptoms (Image: Getty)
A deadly virus is back in the spotlight, prompting pest control experts to warn that it can affect any household where rodents are present. Hantavirus, which is mainly spread by rats and mice, is very rare in the UK but can be fatal.
A potentially lethal virus has resurfaced, prompting pest control specialists to advise vigilance in households where rodents are present. Known as hantavirus, this disease is primarily transmitted by rats and mice. Although it remains uncommon in the UK, it carries the risk of being fatal.
The virus recently claimed the lives of Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist and wife of actor Gene Hackman, and amateur footballer Matias Uribe Nova. Experts caution that the real threat lies in unrecognized infestations, where disturbances during cleaning can release contaminated dust. According to pest control professionals at Acorn Environmental Services, many people underestimate how easily rodents can infiltrate homes and how quickly these threats can escalate. “Hantavirus is often perceived as something that could never affect them,” noted John Whiteley-Wilkson, a pest control expert at Acorn Environmental Services. “Rodents aren’t selective about location or cleanliness; they invade wherever they find food and shelter.” The virus is most commonly transmitted to humans via exposure to rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, with inhaling dust from dried rodent waste being the primary mode of infection.
The virus is carried by rodents (Image: Getty)
Symptoms often appear weeks after exposure and can feel like flu at first. These include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, the virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a life-threatening condition where fluid builds up in the lungs.
“The early symptoms are easy to dismiss,” John explained. “That is what makes it so dangerous. People think they are run down or have picked up a virus, when in reality the condition can worsen very quickly.”
After exposure, symptoms may take weeks to manifest, initially mimicking the flu. Common signs include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. In severe instances, the virus can progress to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a critical condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the lungs.
“The early signs are easy to overlook,” John explained. “That’s where the danger lies. People might think they’re just feeling run down or have caught a simple virus, but the situation can deteriorate rapidly.”
Experts emphasize that the highest risk occurs when cleaning areas frequented by rodents, such as attics, garages, sheds, and basements.
“One of the most significant errors we observe is sweeping up droppings without proper protection,” John stated. “This action can release contaminated particles into the air, posing a risk of inhalation.”
Large properties, rural homes and city houses are all at risk if food sources and shelter are available. Effective rodent control plays a major role in preventing hantavirus.
Experts recommend sealing gaps around doors, windows and pipework, storing food securely, managing waste properly and keeping gardens clear of debris that could be used for nesting. When cleaning areas where rodents have been present, protective gloves, masks and disinfectants should always be used.
“Droppings should be dampened with a biocide before removal,” John said. “That simple step reduces the chance of contaminated dust becoming airborne.”
While some homeowners attempt to deal with rodents themselves, experts warn that DIY treatments often fail. “Rodents breed fast and adapt quickly,” said Whiteley. “In many areas, house mice are already resistant to common shop-bought poisons, which makes amateur control unreliable.”
Professional pest controllers are trained to properly assess infestations and use treatments not available to the general public. Although hantavirus can be deadly, experts stress that it is largely preventable with early action and proper pest management.
“Strong rodent control and good hygiene make a huge difference,” Whiteley said. “The risk is real, but it is one that people can significantly reduce if they take pest problems seriously.”
