Health Risks of Inhaling Rodent-Derived Particulates

Inhalation of aerosolized material from dead rodents poses respiratory and infectious risks. Proper handling minimizes exposure.

Respiratory Hazards

• Particulate matter: Dust, dander, dried urine/feces → irritant-induced cough, bronchospasm, hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
• Allergic sensitization: Rodent urinary proteins (Rat n 1, Mus m 1) — major occupational allergens (lab workers).
• Endotoxin (LPS): Gram-negative bacterial cell wall component → fever, neutrophilia, airflow obstruction.

Infectious Risks (Zoonoses)

Pathogen	Disease	Transmission
Hantavirus (Sin Nombre, Seoul)	HPS / HFRS	Aerosolized urine/feces/saliva
Leptospira spp.	Leptospirosis	Contact with contaminated water/soil; aerosol possible
Yersinia pestis	Plague	Flea bite primarily; aerosol (pneumonic) human-to-human
Francisella tularensis	Tularemia	Aerosol, contact, vector
Coxiella burnetii	Q fever	Aerosol (highly infectious)
LCMV	Lymphocytic choriomeningitis	Aerosol, transplant

Safe Handling and Disposal

1. Ventilate area 30 min before entry.
2. PPE: N95/FFP2 respirator, gloves (nitrile), goggles, disposable coveralls.
3. Wet method: Spray 10% bleach or EPA-registered disinfectant; soak 5 min. Avoid sweeping/vacuuming (aerosolizes).
4. Double-bag carcass and contaminated materials; seal.
5. Disposal: Per local regulations (incineration, deep burial, municipal waste if permitted).
6. Decontaminate: Surfaces with disinfectant; wash hands thoroughly.

Post-Exposure

• Monitor for fever, myalgia, cough, dyspnea × 2-6 weeks (incubation varies).
• Seek care if symptoms develop; mention rodent exposure.
• Hantavirus: Early ICU referral improves survival (mortality 38%).

Professional pest control recommended for infestations; they have training, equipment, and disposal protocols.