Article written by idaz medical,
Hantavirus infection can be a severe and sometimes fatal disease. It was first recognized in 1993 in the four corners region of the United States.
The risk of exposure is associated with wild rodent contact, such as deer mice. Early symptoms include fever, aches, and gastrointestinal upset. Four to 10 days after early phase, respiratory signs can occur, including shortness of breath and pulmonary edema.
Arizona will usually see an average of 3 to 5 cases of Hantavirus a year. This number can increase depending on the rodent populations and a number of exposures to individuals.
Arizona 5 year median: 4 cases
Transmission
Transmission occurs when people inhale infected viral droplets from rodent urine, droppings, or nesting material. Although rare, bites from an infected rodent can also spread Hantavirus. Incubation is typically 2 weeks, ranging from 1-6 weeks.
Isolation Precautions
Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings.
Prevention for Patients
- Wear mask and gloves when cleaning up rodent waste material
- Do not sweep up droppings, use wet disinfectant (1:10) bleach solution
- Seal holes in and around homes so rodents cannot enter
- Store food in rodent-proof containers.
Public Health Actions
Environmental partners should be notified to do an assessment of the home.
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case. <!-- Global site tag (gtag.js) - Google Analytics -->
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