Hantavirus (6613)

The deadly hantavirus was first recognized and identified in 1993 when several cases were reported in the southwestern U.S. It is a life-threatening illness that causes acute respiratory disease. The virus associated with this outbreak has been named the "sin nombre" hantavirus.

Rodents are the natural hosts for all hantaviruses, but they may not become sick. Humans may become infected from exposure to rodent droppings or saliva. It is believed that some victims have breathed the virus, which can become airborne.

Each type of hantavirus has its own animal host. The rodent that carries the "sin nombre" hantavirus is the deer mouse. The deer mouse is found throughout the U.S., usually only in rural areas.

The following activities are known to bring humans into contact with infected deer mice: planting or harvesting field crops; living in or cleaning previously vacant cabins, barns, or other outbuildings; living in houses with indoor rodent populations; or disturbing rodent-infested areas while outdoors.

Effective rodent control (especially in rural areas) will prevent contact with the hantavirus.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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