Health risks from Mice in Bellingham and Whatcom County

In Western Washington we primarily deal with the house mouse and the deer mouse. The best way to keep your family safe is by preventing exposure through rodent control. 

Steps for keeping mice out of your home:

1. Prevent entry by sealing holes in your house. Pay attention to gaps around kitchen cabinets, closet floors, your fireplace, appliances, pipes, dryer vents, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Remember a mouse only needs a ¼” for entry.
2. Keep your house clean. Rodents are attracted to food sources and places to nest. Make sure food containers have tight lids and put away pet food.
3. Store hay, piles of wood, and trash cans off the ground, and old vehicles and tires are off your property. Mice often use these for homes.
4. Place trash in heavy-duty plastic or metal garbage cans without holes and tightly sealed.
5. Shrubs and grass should be well-trimmed and away from your home.

The most dangerous disease transmitted by rodents is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. This disease spreads through contact with the droppings or urine of Deer Mice. Make sure to keep doors and windows well ventilated before cleaning a nesting space. 

Rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves and a dust mask may provide some protection.

Eating food or drinking water contaminated by rodents can also make you sick. Discard food that rodents have touched.

If you suspect a mouse or rodent infestation in your home or business, contact Environmental Pest Control. We have the experience, equipment and take the necessary precautions to keep your home free of rodents.