Understanding the contamination route
The main route of hantavirus contamination is inhalation of contaminated micro-aerosols. These particles form when infected rodent droppings or urine dry out and disperse into the air when disturbed (sweeping, moving materials). This is why the most important preventive measures aim to prevent this inhalation.
The 10 essential measures
- Ventilate before entering: open doors and windows of an enclosed space (attic, cellar, cabin, barn) for at least 30 minutes before working there.
- Never dry-sweep: use a damp mop or a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter. Dry sweeping propels viral particles into the air.
- Wear an FFP2 or FFP3 mask when cleaning at-risk areas, particularly where rodent traces are visible.
- Wear waterproof gloves when handling dead rodents, their nests or contaminated materials.
- Disinfect before cleaning: spray a diluted bleach solution (1 part to 10 parts water) on droppings and soiled areas. Leave for 5 minutes before wiping with a damp cloth.
- Store food in airtight containers to avoid attracting rodents.
- Seal entry points: fill cracks and holes in walls, floors and foundations with cement or steel wool.
- Store firewood away from the house and elevated on pallets or metal shelving.
- Avoid sleeping on the ground when forest camping. Use an elevated inflatable mattress or hammock.
- Wash hands thoroughly after any outdoor activity in forests or gardens.
Recommended protective equipment
For work in high-risk spaces (abandoned buildings, attics with heavy rodent traces, renovation of old buildings):
- FFP2 mask minimum — FFP3 for heavy contamination
- Nitrile or latex gloves (double if dead rodents present)
- Wraparound safety goggles
- Disposable Tyvek coverall for extensive contamination
- Closed, covered footwear
High-risk periods in Belgium
Risk is higher during years with high vole density, generally every 3 to 4 years. In Belgium, April to October is the period of highest rodent activity. The Ardennes, Namur and Liège provinces are the most affected areas. Check Sciensano's epidemiological bulletins for the current risk level.
No vaccine available in Europe
Unlike China and South Korea, no hantavirus vaccine is available in Europe. Prevention therefore relies entirely on the protective measures described above. If you develop suspicious symptoms after rodent exposure, use SymptomChecker.be to assess your risk and consult a doctor promptly.