What type of precautions should you take when handling rats known to have Seoul virus infection?

• A. Short-sleeve shirt and gloves
• B. Impermeable gown, face shield, N95 respirator, 2 pairs of gloves, +/- bite gloves
• C. No PPE required
• D. Regular cloth gloves only

Answer: (B)

Handling infected rats requires protecting the skin, eyes, and airways from potential virus-containing aerosols and direct contact. Seoul virus is a hantavirus transmitted by rodent excreta, so the safest approach is full barrier protection: an impermeable gown to block fluids, eye and face protection (face shield or goggles) to guard mucous membranes, and a respirator such as an N95 to filter inhaled aerosols. Wearing two pairs of gloves provides a safe inner/outer layer and helps prevent contamination during removal, with bite gloves used if there’s a risk of bites during handling. This combination covers all routes of exposure and is essential for safe handling.

Other options fall short because they either omit respiratory or eye protection, leave skin exposed, or rely on permeable or inadequate gloves, which do not provide sufficient barriers against aerosols or fluids.