By Alicea Einspahr
NCHD public information officer
The first confirmed Colorado case of Hantavirus in 2019 has recently been reported; this serves as a good reminder that the virus is found throughout the state, including in northeast Colorado. Human cases infrequently occur, however, the illness is severe and potentially life-threatening if not identified early.
Hantavirus is a respiratory disease carried by mice and rats. The rodents shed the virus in their urine, droppings, and saliva. In Colorado, the virus is mainly transmitted to people when they breathe in air or dust contaminated with deer mouse urine and feces, especially when cleaning out rodent-infested structures in and around their residences. Not all rodents carry Hantavirus, and there is usually no way to tell when a rodent has the virus.
So, it is wise to avoid all contact with rodents when possible. There are no known cases of Hantavirus being transmitted person-to-person in the United States.
Symptoms of Hantavirus, which can begin from one to six weeks after exposure, include fever, body aches, headache, and vomiting. While at first there are no respiratory symptoms, the illness can progress quickly to respiratory distress within one to five days. People may have a dry cough and difficulty breathing caused by their lungs filling with fluid.
Because no effective treatment exists for Hantavirus, prevention is key and includes the following:
• Ventilate structures before cleaning and spray any accumulation of dust, dirt and mouse droppings with a mixture of bleach and water (one part bleach to nine parts water).
• Never sweep or vacuum an area where a rodent infestation has been; this can make virus particles airborne.
• Rodent-proof your buildings by plugging holes or other mouse entryways. Conduct year-round rodent control or hire a professional exterminator.
• Keep indoor areas clean, especially kitchens. Dispose of garbage in sealed containers.
• Remove rodent hiding places near your home, such as wood, junk and brush piles. Store firewood at least 100 feet from your house. Keep vegetation around the house well-trimmed.
For more information about Hantavirus contact NCHD, (970) 522-3741 or visit http://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/ for complete information regarding prevention, information about the disease and how to properly clean rodent-infested buildings and structures.