Dirty, disgusting, disease-ridden. Ask most people what they think about mice and these are the typical responses to expect. Interestingly enough, they are not far from the truth. Rodents have long been associated with the spreading of germs and illness. Dating back to the Black Death, rats and mice are still widely considered nasty pests that need to be kept away from humans. If you have had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a mouse infestation, we hope that you were successfully able to take the appropriate actions needed in order to regain your home.
Post-infestation Precautions
The sooner a pest problem is resolved, the better. Special precautions must be made when cleaning a home or building where mice have nested. Not only is the stench of urine and odor repulsive, it also contains millions of microscopic bacteria, particles that if inhaled, can lead to life-threatening diseases. Before we proceed further, the distinction must be made between a common household pest problem and a full blown infestation.
Common Pest Problem vs. Full Blown Problem
The latter refers to a situation where more than a usual amount of animals is dwelling in a particular property. Since mice are naturally reclusive and tend only to come out of their nooks and crannies at night, visible signs of their presence is a major red flag. This includes noticeable amounts of droppings, chewed plastic or fabric (mice routinely use couches, bedding, and other furniture to build their nests), and an intense musky odor. While it may seem normal, spotting a mouse during daylight hours is yet another warning sign that one may be experiencing an infestation.
Cleaning up
After evacuating the premises and quarantining the immediate room or rooms where the mice have been nesting, the next thing you will want to do is acquire the proper cleanup gear. No one should step foot in the house without an OSHA-approved particulate respirator and set of rubber gloves. These items will prevent the inhalation of airborne bacteria and control the spread of germs. Remember to wear discard-able clothing (tattered rags apply in rodent cleanup situations), just to be on the safe side. Place all contaminated items in airtight, double-layered, plastic trash bags, and exercise caution when cleaning near mouse droppings. A vacuum is a good way to suck up loose debris, but the downside of this removal method is that it causes harmful particles to go airborne. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the room, and allow plenty of fresh air to circulate before letting people back indoors.
For severe infestations, it is best to call a professional pest control specialist. There are some problems that the average homeowner can't deal with. Handling a infestation properly is necessary to keep your home pest-free and healthy. Not only is proper pest removal important, but proper cleanup afterward is important.
