Got Mice? Seal, Trap, and Clean Up to Control Rodents

Field biologist weighs a deer mouse in a hantavirus investigation.

Mice and rats are pesky critters that can enter your home through small holes or gaps. Mice can squeeze through a hole the size of a nickel, and rats can squeeze through a hole the size of half of a quarter!

Worldwide, rats and mice are the cause of over 35 diseases! In the United States, rodents can spread diseases like hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, rat-bite fever, leptospirosis, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, a virus that poses a particular risk for pregnant women. If rodents invade your home this fall or winter, here are a few steps to protect yourself and your family.

Rats! What To Do about Rodents!

If you find signs of rodents or their droppings in your home, take precautions to clean up the area safely.

• Seal up holes or gaps in your home to prevent rodents from returning. Learn more about sealing gaps…
• Trap rodents in and around your home using an appropriate snap trap. Learn more about trapping…
• Clean up any sources of food or water, and items that might provide shelter for rodents. Learn more about cleaning up…

A Study of Mice and Men

CDC continues to work with partners nationally to study rodents and the germs they carry. In Montana, scientists have been conducting a multi-year study of deer mice, the rodent known to transmit the virus that causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. By observing the deer mouse in its natural environment, scientists are able to better understand how the rodent can transmit diseases to people. This information can assist in developing recommendations and education towards preventing the disease.

More Information

• Rodent Control: Seal Up! Trap Up! Clean Up!