Traps contaminated by rodent urine or feces or in which a rodent was captured should be disinfected with what?

• A. Plain water
• B. Commercial disinfectant or bleach solution
• C. Soap and water only
• D. Alcohol-based cleaner

Answer: (B)

Disinfection of traps touched by rodent urine, feces, or where a rodent was captured requires a product that can inactivate the pathogens that may be present on those surfaces. Rodent excreta can carry bacteria and viruses, so you need something with proven broad-spectrum efficacy. A commercial disinfectant or a bleach solution provides that reliable level of disinfection, which plain water or soap and water cannot guarantee. Alcohol-based cleaners, while useful for many applications, may not consistently disinfect all rodent-associated pathogens on contaminated traps. Use a properly diluted bleach solution (or a commercially labeled disinfectant), thoroughly wet the surfaces, and follow the product’s contact time. Wear gloves, ventilate the area, avoid creating dust, and dispose of contaminated materials safely after disinfection.