Pest Control Questions Answered

Expanded Question:

I recently found out that a rat has made a home inside my dryer. I peared into the exhaust duct and the rat droppings trailed into the bowels of my dryer. Is there any way to safely clean the dryer? Is it destroyed? Waht are the risks of contracting the Hanta virus?

Please help

Answer:

Rats in your drier can be of concern regarding the virus known as Hantavirus.  Western States have reported this condition.  I am not aware of any such reportings in Mid-West or Eastern states.  Of that concern, please call CDC at 877-539-4344, or e-mail to http://cdc.gov/ncidod/hanta/hps/index.htm in order to relieve yourself of that concern.

Certainly, a concern could be managed by using a hypochlorite solution sprayed over all contaminated surfaces of the drier.  in any event, exposure to rat urine or dried droppings should be handled in this way.  use rubber gloves and a respiratory filter mask while cleaning.

Now back to the rat.  Check your vent, and any interior voids that could have allowed rats to access the duct leading to the building's exterior.  Should rats be present below the floor, within walls, etc.,  baiting them would be called for.  It might be advisable to contact a professional.

Best wishes Joscelin,

George Manning
Consulting Entomologist

Pest Control Chicago