The Mohave County Department of Public Health, in coordination with the Arizona Department of Health Services, confirmed a case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in a Mohave County resident, according to a June 1 announcement. The source of exposure for the case in the Kingman service area could not be determined, and local transmission has not been ruled out.
While infections from hantavirus are rare, health officials are providing information to help residents understand the disease and reduce their risk. The type of hantavirus identified is known as Sin Nombre virus, which is primarily carried by deer mice. This strain has historically been associated with cases in Arizona and the Southwest. Officials said this case is unrelated to recent national media reports about Andes virus outbreaks linked to cruise ships in South America.
Sin Nombre virus does not spread from person to person. Most infections occur when individuals breathe dust contaminated by urine, droppings, saliva or nesting materials from infected rodents.
“Although hantavirus is uncommon, awareness and prevention are important, especially for people spending time outdoors or cleaning areas where rodents may be present,” said Health Director Melissa Palmer.
Residents may encounter rodents or rodent droppings in houses, sheds, garages, barns, cabins, campers and recreational vehicles as well as storage boxes and vacant buildings. People opening seasonal cabins or preparing RVs for travel should take precautions before disturbing dust or debris that might contain rodent waste.
Symptoms can develop one to eight weeks after exposure and often begin with fever, fatigue and muscle aches. Other early symptoms include headache, dizziness, chills and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or diarrhea. As illness progresses, some individuals may experience cough or difficulty breathing. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after potential rodent exposure should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about possible contact with rodents.
Prevention tips include watching for signs of rodent activity; airing out enclosed spaces before cleaning; avoiding sweeping droppings; spraying nests with disinfectant before cleanup; wearing gloves and masks during cleaning; sealing holes around structures; storing food securely; and considering professional pest control if needed.
Additional information on hantavirus prevention is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/hantavirus. The public health department will continue monitoring the situation.
