For more information, contact Kim Papich, SRHD Public Information Officer (509) 324-1539
 
SPOKANE, Wash. – May 8, 2013 In an ongoing effort to reduce the spread of hantaviruses, Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) continues to urge people to avoid contact with potentially infectious mice. This can be done by keeping mice out of the places where residents live and work, and by following safety precautions when cleaning up a mice-infested area.
 
In the Northwest, deer mice are the main carriers of hantavirus, which can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS)—a disease that causes acute respiratory symptoms in humans. The mice shed the virus in their urine, droppings and saliva. The virus is mainly transmitted to people when they breathe in virus-contaminated air—this can happen when working in or cleaning barns, sheds, outbuildings, warehouses and summer cabins that have not been occupied. Infected deer mice can infest homes as well.
 
In Washington state, over 1,100 deer mice have been tested for infection from the virus—about 14 percent tested positive. Hantavirus symptoms in humans are flu-like and usually begin one to three weeks after exposure. The illness is characterized by fever, chills and muscle aches, followed by the abrupt onset of respiratory distress and shortness of breath. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. If you experience an abrupt onset of flu-like symptoms after cleaning rodent waste, consult your health care provider immediately. There is no vaccine to prevent hantavirus infections.
 
To avoid possible exposure, eliminate or minimize contact with rodents in your home, workplace or campsite. Seal up holes and gaps in your home or garage. Place traps in and around your home to decrease rodent infestation. Clean up any easy-to-get food. Click here for important tips to avoid exposure when cleaning rodent-infested areas.
 
For questions or concerns about hantavirus, residents can call 509-324-1560, ext 7. Information can also be found at www.srhd.org. SRHD’s web site offers comprehensive, updated information about Spokane Regional Health District and its triumphs in making Spokane County a safer and healthier community. Become a fan of SRHD on Facebook to receive local safety and wellness tips. You can also follow us on Twitter @spokanehealth.