Recent headlines about cruise ship passengers reportedly being affected by hantavirus have raised concerns about the dangers rodents can pose to human health. While hantavirus infections are rare in the United States, they can lead to serious illness. In addition, they highlight why proper rodent control and exclusion are so important for homes and businesses in Southwest Florida.
At Crews Complete Pest Solutions, we help homeowners protect their property from rats, mice, and other nuisance wildlife before they become a health hazard.
What Is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a virus carried primarily by rats and mice. Humans can become infected when they come into contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or contaminated nesting materials.
In severe cases, hantavirus can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a potentially life-threatening respiratory illness. Early symptoms often resemble the flu and may include:
- Fever and chills
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
As the illness progresses, it can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and serious breathing complications.
Is Hantavirus Spread by rats?
Yes – The hantavirus is most commonly spread when contaminated particles become airborne and are inhaled. This can happen when:
- Sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings
- Cleaning garages, attics, sheds, or storage rooms with rodent activity
- Disturbing rodent nests
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
Contrary to popular belief, rodents do not need to bite someone to spread disease.
Even a small rodent problem can quickly become dangerous because rats and mice reproduce rapidly and often remain hidden behind walls, inside attics, or beneath appliances.
Why Rodents Are a Major Problem in Florida
Southwest Florida’s warm climate creates ideal conditions for rodents year-round. Rats and mice are constantly searching for food, water, and shelter from storms and heat.
Homes and businesses in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and surrounding communities often experience increased rodent activity during rainy seasons when pests move indoors.
Unfortunately, rodents can cause much more than disease concerns. They are also known for:
- Chewing electrical wiring
- Damaging insulation
- Contaminating food
- Destroying stored belongings
- Creating foul odors inside walls and attics
The Importance of Rodent Exclusion
Many homeowners make the mistake of only treating the rodents they see. Effective rodent control requires identifying how the rodents are getting inside in the first place.
That’s where professional rodent exclusion services come in.
At Crews Complete Pest Solutions, our rodent control programs focus on both elimination and prevention. We inspect your property for vulnerable entry points such as:
- Roof gaps
- Soffit openings
- Damaged vents
- Utility penetrations
- Garage door gaps
- Cracks and openings around the foundation
Once these entry points are identified, we help seal and secure them to prevent future infestations.
Signs You May Have a Rodent Problem
Rodents are experts at staying hidden, so homeowners often notice the signs before they see the actual pests.
Common warning signs include:
- Droppings in cabinets, garages, or attics
- Scratching noises in walls or ceilings
- Gnawed wires or food packaging
- Grease marks along baseboards
- Unpleasant odors
- Pet food disappearing overnight
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly before the infestation worsens.
Protect Your Home With Professional Rodent Control from Crews Complete
When you choose Crews Complete Pest Solutions, you’re supporting a trusted local family-owned company dedicated to protecting Southwest Florida homes and businesses from rodents and other pests.
Whether you’re dealing with rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, or other nuisance wildlife, our team can help create a customized solution to keep your property protected year-round.
Don’t wait until a small rodent problem turns into a major health concern.
Call today for a free estimate and learn how we can help keep your home safe, clean, and rodent-free.
