Smileband health topics

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis is a viral infection that is caused by the Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV). The initial phase of the illness usually includes:

• fever
• malaise
• lack of appetite
• muscle aches
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting

A secondary phase of illness may occur after a few days of recovery from the initial phase. This phase can include:

• meningitis
• encephalitis
• meningoencephalitis.

LCMV can be passed to a fetus if a pregnant woman becomes infected. Infections in the first trimester can result in fetal death and pregnancy termination. Infections in the second and third trimester can result in birth defects.

There has not been a case of LCMV reported in Arizona in the last 10 years.

Transmission 
Transmission occurs when an individual has exposure to fresh urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting material from infected rodents.

Person to person transmission has not been reported.

Vertical transmission from mother to fetus can occur.

The incubation period is 8 to 13 days. Isolation Precautions 

Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings.

Prevention for Patients 
The best prevention method is to avoid contact with wild mice and to take precautions when handling pet rodents.

• Pet rodents should not have contact with wild rodents
• Wash hands after handling a pet rodent
• Take precautions to reduce rodent infestations in and around the home

Public Health Actions 
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case. <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->

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