Are there health hazards to humans when handling spring-threshed grains?
Hantavirus from deer mouse droppings is possible. Wear a respirator mask to prevent inhaling the particles that may contain the hantavirus. Wear gloves and coveralls to minimize skin contact with the grains. Salmonella can also be present. Salmonella is spread through the feces from animal to animal, or animal to humans. Good sanitation practices and avoiding direct contact is the best preventative measure. Always wear gloves and coveralls to prevent contact.