As you gear up for outdoor activities and prepare sheds and camp trailers for summer adventures, health officials stress the importance of being cautious about Hantavirus.
A recent hantavirus fatality in Sierra County, just a month ago, underscores the seriousness of the issue. Officials report that mice were known to inhabit the area where the victim contracted the virus. Hantavirus spreads to humans through deer mouse droppings, which can be inhaled during cleaning activities in areas where the mice reside. Symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and respiratory distress indicate its presence, potentially leading to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a life-threatening respiratory condition.
To mitigate the risk, public health recommends ventilating closed-up winter spaces like sheds, garages, or trailers for a few hours before cleaning, and wearing masks and gloves. Additionally, a bleach solution is advised for cleaning, while sweeping or vacuuming should be avoided. Those seeking further information can visit the CA Dept of Public Health’s website for guidance on Hantavirus.
Apart from Hantavirus, when heading into the outdoors, you should also be mindful of encountering potentially rabid animals. Vigilance, especially around wildlife, is crucial. Health officals also add vaccinating your pet against rabies is essential. If bitten, symptoms of the disease in humans can range from fever and headache to hallucinations, paralysis, and death.
As warmer weather encourages more outdoor pursuits, you can enjoy the outdoors by understanding and mitigating the risks posed by animal-borne illnesses. Hantavirus and rabies are among the most significant threats to public health.
