According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, deer mice are one species of rodents that carry hantavirus. As the warmer weather returns with spring, you'll have to heighten your pest management procedures.
Furthermore, the CDC pointed out that deer mice are found throughout Canada, underscoring the importance of home pest control. The dangers posed by these critters can be life-threatening and should be taken seriously, especially if you suspect that you may have deer mice in the home.
Pest World stated that hantavirus can be contracted via respiration of urine droplets of infected deer mice. It can also be transmitted while handling the carcasses of these rodents.
Early symptoms of hantavirus include muscle aches, stomach problems, dizziness, chills, fever and headaches. Four to 10 days later, symptoms progress and increase in risk. Individuals can have shortness of breath and the lungs can fill up with fluid. It's a potentially fatal condition, which makes deer mice very risky pests and ones that should definitely be kept out of your home.
Deer mice are the most widely distributed mammal in North America, according to the University of California's Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. They're also the most abundant and are great climbers. It was pointed out that deer mice prefer forests, agricultural crops and grasslands. Therefore, they aren't usually found in urban areas unless the structures are located near their preferred habitats.
Deer mice are known for entering homes through chimneys, so sealing it up as winter draws to a close can help protect your house against these pests, according to the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. These critters mainly eat seeds and nuts. Therefore, if you have bird feeders in the backyard, it may be a good idea to take them down, as they may attract unwelcome guests.
If you find that your home has a deer mouse problem, reach out to pest control professionals such as those from Abell Pest Control. These experts are familiar with the dangers that these rodents pose and have the necessary equipment and knowledge to safely handle them. Furthermore, they'll assess the entire home to ensure proper precautions that'll keep deer mice out for good. They can also advise you on best practices throughout the year to help protect you and your loved ones from these pests.