When Wrath came to town

 Edited: For Associated Press style

By: Leslie Jones McCloud 

It looked as if wrath had come to town.

The tornado that tore through much of north Merrillville three days ago left the area desolate.

It ripped through Andrean High School and snapped the tops off trees along its path.

Broadway remains closed near Strack’s shopping plaza and west along 61st Avenue.

The area looks war-torn. Thick branches are splintered and scattered in every direction, resembling the worn bristles of an old toothbrush.

The damage is shocking.

The tornado crossed westward along 61st Avenue, leaving deep trenches in the ground and utility poles snapped into pieces. Traffic is being diverted north onto Harrison Street, where the destruction continues. Entire roofs are gone, and massive oak trees rest atop exposed roof frames.

From the road, stone walls are among the few parts of some homes still standing.

Traffic inched along Harrison Street for several reasons: curiosity, confusion over which roads remained open and the heavy volume of vehicles diverted from the busy intersection of Broadway and 61st Avenue.

How to kill Hantavirus 🐁🐭🪤

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Hantavirus is a serious respiratory disease found in the droppings, urine, and saliva of certain rodents. The virus is relatively fragile and can be inactivated by many household disinfecting, detergents, and sunlight. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Essential Safety Precautions

The most important rule when cleaning areas where rodents have been present is to avoid creating dust. Breathing in contaminated dust is the primary way the virus is transmitted. Never sweep or vacuum dry rodent droppings, nests, or contaminated surfaces. [1]

1. Ventilate the Space
Before starting any cleaning, open all doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate for at least 30 to 60 minutes. Leave the area while it is airing out. [1, 2]

2. Use Personal Protective Equipment
Wear rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves. In cases of heavy infestation or confined spaces, wearing a mask or respirator may be recommended by health authorities. [1]

3. Wet Down the Area
Thoroughly spray dead rodents, nests, and droppings with a disinfectant or a bleach solution. Ensure the material is completely soaked to prevent any dust from lifting into the air. [1]

4. Allow Contact Time
Let the disinfectant sit on the contaminated material for several minutes (refer to the product label for specific contact times) to ensure the virus is neutralized before touching it.

5. Careful Disposal
Use paper towels or rags to pick up the soaked material. Place everything, including the cleaning materials and gloves, into a plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly, place it inside a second bag, and dispose of it in a secure outdoor trash container.

6. Hygiene
After cleaning and removing gloves, wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Professional Guidance

For detailed instructions, especially when dealing with heavy infestations in homes or workplaces, consult the official CDC Rodent Cleanup Guide or contact local public health officials.