MCHD encourages rodent safety and awareness as hantavirus concerns rise nationally 5-21-26

May 21, 2026

MCHD encourages rodent safety and awareness as hantavirus concerns rise nationally

MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department is encouraging residents to take practical steps to protect themselves from rodent exposure as multiple reports from across the United States have raised concern about hantavirus-related illness. While some areas of the country have rodent populations known to carry hantavirus, Mobile County remains fortunate to have a very low known risk in its local rodent population. State public health officials are also expanding their ability to test people for hantavirus, helping strengthen awareness and response.

“Hantavirus infection is rare, but it can be serious,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Mobile County Health Officer. “The good news for Mobile County is that our local risk remains low. Still, residents should take simple precautions at home and while traveling, especially in areas where infected rodent populations may be present.”

Health officials note that the primary risk comes from exposure to infected rodents or materials contaminated by rodent urine, droppings, or nesting debris. Residents are encouraged to rodent-proof their homes by sealing holes and gaps, storing food properly, removing clutter, and addressing conditions that may attract rodents. People should also take extra care when cleaning rodent droppings in homes, sheds, garages, barns, cabins, or other enclosed areas.

The Mobile County Health Department reminds residents to use personal protective measures when cleaning areas contaminated by rodents. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings, which can stir particles into the air. Instead, ventilate the area, wear gloves and appropriate protection, spray the area with a disinfectant or bleach solution, allow it to soak, and then wipe up the material carefully.

Residents traveling to other parts of the country should be especially mindful of rodent exposure when staying in cabins, camps, rural lodging, or other settings where rodents may be present. Public health officials also note that the only reported person-to-person transmission has been associated with Andes virus, which is found in rodent populations in South America, not the United States.

The Mobile County Health Department encourages residents to seek medical attention if they develop fever, muscle aches, fatigue, or breathing problems after significant rodent exposure. Prevention remains the best protection, and a few careful steps can reduce risk at home and while away.

For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/about/index.html.