What You Need to Know About This Deadly Virus and Biohazard Cleanup in Western North Carolina
Recent news headlines have reminded us of a silent but deadly threat: hantavirus. This rare but serious disease, carried by rodents, can have devastating consequences if not properly handled. At the same time, decomposition and other biohazard exposures present severe health risks that often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Biohazard remediation is not just about cleaning—it’s about protecting lives. In this blo, we’ll break down the dangers of hantavirus, decomposition, and why professional cleanup is crucial for safety.
What Is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a severe respiratory disease that spreads primarily through airborne particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. While rare, it can be fatal, and once symptoms appear, there is no specific cure.
How Does Hantavirus Spread?
Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
HPS progresses rapidly and can be fatal. This is why safe and professional cleanup of rodent infestations is critical.
📌 Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Hantavirus Overview
Many people think they can clean up rodent infestations with household disinfectants, but this is a critical mistake.
Dangers of DIY Hantavirus Cleanup
Lack of Proper Equipment: Household masks and gloves are not enough to prevent exposure to airborne pathogens.
Cross-Contamination: Without proper procedures, hantavirus can spread to other areas of the home.
Inadequate Disinfection: Standard cleaning supplies may not fully eliminate biohazards, leaving lingering health risks.
📌 Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Guidelines for Biohazard Cleanup
If you encounter any of the following, it’s time to call trained professionals: Large amounts of rodent droppings or evidence of nesting. A known or suspected case of hantavirus exposure. Lingering odors or signs of rodent infestation in hidden areas.
Professional remediation teams like Bio-One are equipped with:
📌 Source: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Best Practices for Biohazard Remediation
Hantavirus poses serious health risks that are often underestimated until it’s too late. If you suspect an infestation or encounter a hazardous scene, do not risk your health.
At Bio-One, we specialize in safe and professional biohazard cleanup, ensuring that your home or property is fully decontaminated and safe to inhabit.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact us today. Your safety is our top priority.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Trust the professionals.
📌 Additional Resources:
In a recent interview with Krista Gregg, owner of Bio-One of Asheville, Taylor Rummelt, Director of Utilization Management at the Asheville Recovery Center (ARC), shared valuable insights into the center’s mission, programs, and the addiction trends shaping Asheville today. From innovative family-focused initiatives to being recognized as one of the best recovery centers in North Carolina, ARC continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those struggling with addiction.
A Commitment to Excellence: Recognized by Newsweek
For two years running, ARC has been named the Best Recovery Center in North Carolina by Newsweek. This recognition highlights their commitment to providing exceptional care through tailored programs and a compassionate approach. Taylor explained that the award is a testament to the dedication of ARC’s team, emphasizing their philosophy: treat people with dignity and great outcomes will follow.
Innovative Family Involvement Programs
ARC is enhancing its services with new programs designed to include families in the recovery process. Currently, families can visit clients for a few hours on Sundays, but plans are underway to expand this into regular, more immersive events. Taylor shared that these gatherings will include group therapy sessions, cookouts, and activities that strengthen the support systems clients rely on during recovery. The goal? Equip families with the tools and understanding they need to play an active role in their loved one’s long-term success.
Addiction Trends in Asheville
Taylor provided a data-driven perspective on substance use in Asheville, shedding light on the challenges the community faces:
These statistics underscore the importance of comprehensive, tailored care at ARC.
The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Drinks and Changing Social Norms
Taylor also discussed the growing popularity of non-alcoholic (NA) beverages and how they’re shaping social and recovery spaces. In Asheville, NA options like mocktails and alcohol-free bars are becoming more common. While some individuals in recovery find these alternatives helpful for maintaining sobriety in social settings, others prefer to avoid anything that mimics alcohol. Regardless, the trend reflects a positive shift towards inclusivity and reducing the social pressure to drink.
How Families Can Support a Loved One in Recovery
Addiction doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects entire families. Taylor emphasized the importance of informed, intentional support:
Taylor cautioned against enabling, particularly in today’s climate where substances like fentanyl pose deadly risks.
If You or a Loved One Needs Help
Taylor’s most important advice? Take the first step by making a call. Reaching out is often the hardest part, but it’s also the most crucial. Asheville Recovery Center’s admissions team is ready to help you navigate your options and find the best level of care, whether it’s detox, residential treatment, or outpatient support.
Visit the Asheville Recover Center website to learn more or call 828-237-4582 to speak with their team and start the journey toward recovery.
Hurricane Helene brought devastating damage to western North Carolina, leaving families, first responders, and entire communities struggling to recover. At Bio-One of Asheville, we were overwhelmed by the incredible outpouring of support from the Bio-One family across the United States. Their generosity played a vital role in helping us provide disaster recovery assistance when it was needed most.
The Bio-One network stepped up in extraordinary ways, raising $3,495 to support emergency recovery initiatives in Asheville and surrounding areas. These funds helped us meet critical needs, including:
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Bio-One home office team, whose combined donation of $1,500 made a significant difference in our ability to act quickly.
In addition to financial support, Bio-One offices across the country worked tirelessly to deliver essential supplies to those affected. Teams from Bio-One of Delaware, Bio-One of Greensboro, Bio-One of Charlotte, and Bio-One of Asheboro drove tens of thousands of donations to the Asheville area.
These donations included:
The supplies were distributed to key organizations and communities in need, such as:
At Bio-One of Asheville, we are reminded daily of the strength that comes from working together. The outpouring of support from the Bio-One family and beyond has been a beacon of hope for our team and our community during this challenging time.
The financial contributions and physical donations have made a lasting impact, ensuring that families, first responders, and local organizations had the resources they needed to begin recovery.
To everyone who contributed, whether through financial support or by delivering supplies, thank you. Your generosity has not only helped rebuild homes and restore hope but has also shown the true power of compassion and community.
If you or someone you know is in need of disaster recovery assistance, contact Bio-One of Asheville today at 828-407-0454. Together, we can rebuild and recover.
In the emotional aftermath of loss, funeral directors often extend beyond traditional roles. Matt Gregg of Bio-One Asheville showcased this at the 2024 North Carolina Funeral Directors Association Convention, emphasizing the vital partnership with biohazard remediation teams. This collaboration focuses on supporting grieving families by managing the practical challenges they may face alone.
Key Points from the Video:
At the convention, Bio-One of Asheville and Bio-One of Asheboro proudly served as a Silver sponsor and enjoyed connecting with NC Funeral Directors Association President, Garland Smith.
This collaboration ensures families receive compassionate, comprehensive support when most needed, allowing us to serve the community together.
