How can I prevent hantavirus infection?

Prevention focuses on minimizing rodent exposure. Practical steps: (1) Seal openings >¼ inch around homes, sheds, and cabins to prevent rodent entry. (2) Trap rodents using snap traps in problem areas; do not use poison alone (carcasses must still be removed safely). (3) Before entering long-closed buildings (cabins, garages, storage sheds), open doors and windows for at least 30 minutes to ventilate. (4) Wet down dust and droppings with bleach solution (1:10) before cleaning; never sweep or vacuum dry rodent waste, as this aerosolizes virus particles. (5) Wear rubber/latex gloves and an N95 respirator when handling potential rodent contamination. (6) Store food in rodent-proof containers. For travelers to endemic regions, avoid sleeping in rodent-infested cabins or tents. The MV Hondius cluster origin remains under investigation but likely involved rodent exposure during the index case's South American travels.