An early spring means more time outside. It also it is the season for diseases spread by rodents, insects and wildlife. The good news is that a few simple steps can help lower your risk.
Spring cleaning is often when people notice signs of mice in sheds, garages or other spaces they don’t use often. In Southwest Colorado, deer mice can carry hantavirus. This is a rare but serious illness. It spreads through contact with rodent droppings, urine or saliva. People are most at risk when dust from these materials gets into the air during cleaning.
To clean safely use “wet cleaning.” Open windows and doors for at least 30 minutes. Wear gloves and an N95 mask. Spray droppings and nearby areas with disinfectant or a bleach solution. Let it sit for five to 10 minutes, then wipe it up and throw paper towels in a covered garbage that is regularly emptied. Then mop or sponge the area with a disinfectant again after removing droppings. Do not sweep or vacuum dry droppings.
Prevention is even better. Seal cracks and holes around your home. Store food in sealed containers. Reduce clutter and fix moisture problems. These steps make your home less attractive to rodents. The La Plata County Public Health Department offers a Healthy Homes program that can help identify problem areas. Eligible households may receive supplies like traps, disinfectant and tools for safe cleanup and prevention.
Rodents can also spread plague, which is still found at low levels in the Western U.S., including Colorado. Plague spreads through flea bites or contact with infected animals. It has been found in prairie dogs, rock squirrels, wood rats and other rodents. To reduce risk, use insect repellent outdoors. Treat pets with flea prevention and keep them away from wildlife. Avoid touching dead animals or animal waste.
Warmer weather also brings more insects. Mosquitoes can spread West Nile virus, especially where there is standing water. To protect yourself, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and remove standing water around your home.
Ticks are another concern. Milder winters can mean more ticks survive and become active earlier. In La Plata County, American dog ticks are being seen more often. These ticks can carry illnesses like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Check yourself, children and pets after being outside. Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention for pets. Dogs and cats can bring fleas and ticks into the home. They can also come into contact with wildlife. Outdoor cats are at higher risk. Keeping pets healthy, vaccinated and on parasite prevention helps protect your whole household.
It is also important to avoid direct contact with wildlife. Every year, the health department is notified of animals that are suspected of having rabies. To prevent rabies, vaccinate your pets and make sure they are up to date with their rabies vaccinations. Rabies is rare but almost always fatal once symptoms begin. In Colorado, bats are the most common source of rabies exposure. As the weather warms, bats become more active and may roost in attics or outbuildings. Bat bites can be hard to see. Any possible exposure – especially involving children, pets or someone who was sleeping – should be taken seriously. If you find a bat in your home, especially in a bedroom, do not touch it. Contact the La Plata County Public Health Department for guidance at 828-8833 (business hours) or 247-5702 (after hours).
With a little awareness and a few simple steps, you can lower your risk and enjoy the season safely.
Audrey Gallegos is a public health specialist with the Communicable Disease Program. She can be reached at 828-8833.
