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What is the risk of hantavirus infection from rat feces?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My partner and I cleaned a garage yesterday and there were a lot of rat droppings. Some may even have fallen on our faces while lifting and moving boxes. I did not think anything of it until I researched hantavirus. We do not have any symptoms, but should we get tested? Can we get tested without symptoms?

Answered by Dr. Patil Pratik Pramod

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

  • Rat droppings per se, do not cause the spread of hantavirus unless it is infected.
  • If you see dead rats in or around the garage, it is advisable to get tested. We would screen you for viral markers, provided we find many dead rats in the vicinity. If not, there is no need to worry. Just keep safe.
  • Also, keep a check on your health. In the case of any suspicion of fever or body ache, visit a physician immediately.

For more information consult an internal medicine physician online

Answered byDr. Patil Pratik Pramod

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 5, 2017
Reviewed AtApril 21, 2025

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Patil Pratik Pramod
Dr. Patil Pratik Pramod

Medical oncology

Consult this doctor
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