There is also a significant health hazard associated with mouse dung.

"Home>Health Information>Environmental Health>Mice and Hantavirus
 Mice and Hantavirus
This page was reviewed or revised on Friday, October 25, 2002.
What is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)?

Hantavirus is a virus found in rodents, especially in deer mice. It is not

a new virus but it has only been detected since 1993 when it was found to
be the cause of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, or HPS. HPS is very rare
but a serious illness. The illness was first detected in southwestern U.S.

What is the source of Hantavirus?
Rodents, especially deer mice are the primary carriers of Hantavirus.
The deer mouse (pale grey or reddish brown with white fur on the feet and
belly) can be found in all parts of North America with the exception of
the tree line in the Yukon in Canada and some of the southeastern states
of the U.S.
The habitat of the deer mouse is primarily rural and semi-rural wooded
areas, but generally not urban centres. The deer mouse should not be
confused with the more common house mouse which is not known to carry
Hantavirus.

How is Hantavirus Spread?
Hantavirus is spread to people when they breath in the virus or dust
particles contaminated by infected rodent droppings, urine or saliva or by

a bite from an infected rodent."

Best Regards
Howard Allen
S. Portland, Maine