Nevadans Urged to be Cautious After Recent Hantavirus Cases

The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) are urging Nevadans to take steps to prevent exposure to hantavirus following two recently confirmed cases.

As warmer weather arrives, people will be more active in areas such as sheds, barns, trailers, garages, and cabins where deer mice have nested or left droppings. NDOW reminds the public to be cautious in these areas or other structures that may have been closed up during the winter months.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious respiratory disease caused by exposure to the droppings, urine or saliva of deer mice, which are widespread throughout Nevada. Symptoms typically begin with fever, fatigue and muscle aches, and later may include headaches, chills and gastrointestinal issues. While HPS can be deadly, early detection and prompt medical treatment can greatly improve the chances of recovery.

“We urge people to be aware of any signs of rodent activity and to take precautions to reduce the risk of exposure to hantavirus,” said Melissa Bullock, State Medical Epidemiologist. “Anyone who has been in contact with rodents, nests or droppings and subsequently develops symptoms consistent with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome should see a health care provider immediately.”

DHHS and NDOW recommend the following steps to reduce the risk of hantavirus exposure:

• Clean safely
  • Air out enclosed spaces by opening windows and doors for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.
  • Avoid stirring up dust by not sweeping or vacuuming. Instead, spray contaminated areas with disinfectant (such as a 10% bleach solution), let it soak for 5-10 minutes, and then wipe up with disposable materials.
  • Wear gloves and a well-fitted N95 mask when cleaning areas with signs of rodent activity.
  • Keep areas clean and free of clutter or food sources.
• Eliminate attractants and hiding places
  • Seal all food containers for pets, livestock, or bird feeders.
  • Secure garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids.
  • Clear overgrown vegetation and remove clutter such as woodpiles and brush.
  • Do not compost or remove compost piles that may attract rodents.
• Use rodent/mouse deterrents
  • Seal gaps, cracks, or holes in structures to keep mice out.
  • Repair screens on windows and doors.
  • Ensure garage doors and other entrances are tightly fitted with no gaps.
  • Block access to crawl spaces, under patios, and other vulnerable areas using wire mesh or hardware cloth.
  • Repel rodents by putting natural products such as predator urine, ammonia, vinegar, or coffee grounds along fence lines and exterior areas.
  • Consider installing motion-activated sprinklers to deter rodents and other wildlife.

More information about hantavirus can be found online from the Nevada Office of State Epidemiology at https://nvose.org/diseases/hantavirus-pulmonary-syndrome/.