Deer Mice Bites and Treatment

Deer Mice Bites and Treatment

Deer mice can excrete Hantavirus in their urine, saliva, and feces, so humans may be exposed to the virus by breathing contaminated dust after disturbing or cleaning rodent droppings or nests. HPS can also be transmitted by handling infected materials, then touching your mouth with contaminated hands. Even though only about 44 cases of Hantavirus are reported each year in the US, which is less than the chance of lightning striking you but greater than the chance of a shark attacking you, due to the severity of potential risks involved with deer mice infestations, Florida bug control recommends contacting your local Florida bug control location for a free deer mouse inspection.

Bites, safe cleanup and when to see a doctor

Deer mice and their Florida relatives bite only when grabbed, cornered or caught in a live trap. A bite usually leaves one or two small punctures that may bleed a little. Wash it with soap and running water for several minutes, apply an antiseptic and a clean bandage, and make sure your tetanus shot is current. Contact a doctor for a deep bite, a bite on the hand, or any redness, swelling or pus. Fever, rash or joint pain in the weeks after a bite should also be checked, since rodents can occasionally pass on an infection called rat-bite fever.

Hantavirus is the bigger concern, though Florida cases are rare. The hantavirus identified in South Florida, Black Creek Canal virus, is carried by the hispid cotton rat rather than deer mice. The safe cleanup method is the same for any wild rodent mess:

• Open doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.
• Wear rubber or plastic gloves.
• Soak droppings and nest material with a household disinfectant or diluted bleach and let it sit as the label directs.
• Wipe up with paper towels, and bag everything.
• Never sweep or vacuum dry droppings, which puts dust into the air.

Early hantavirus symptoms such as fever, fatigue and muscle aches usually begin one to eight weeks after exposure. Anyone who develops them after rodent cleanup, especially if coughing or shortness of breath follows, should see a doctor promptly and mention the contact. For prevention, see how to get rid of deer mice.