Saskatchewan residents are urged to take precautions to avoid infection with Hantavirus, especially when cleaning up rodent infested barns, homes or other buildings in their communities, following a recent Hantavirus fatality in West Central Saskatchewan.
"Hantavirus infection is a rare but potentially fatal illness," Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. "We advise people to take precautions against Hantavirus by avoiding contact with deer mice to every extent possible. This is the time of the year when mice are moving indoors. Farmers, grain handlers, cottagers and home owners, who are most likely to be exposed, should take precautions when cleaning rodent-infested buildings to prevent direct contact and breathing in of air particles that may be contaminated. This includes ventilating the building by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before cleaning, using wet mopping methods and wearing gloves."
Humans are most often exposed to the virus by breathing in air particles contaminated by deer mouse saliva, urine or droppings containing infectious Hantaviruses. Hantavirus infection begins with fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, symptoms may get worse and lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare but often fatal illness. HPS can progress rapidly into serious lung complications. Individuals who develop fever or respiratory illness within one to six weeks of potential exposure should seek immediate medical attention.
There have been 21 cases of Hantavirus reported in Saskatchewan since 1994, including four cases in 2004, one case in 2008, one case in 2010 and one this year.
Exposure to Hantavirus can be reduced by blocking openings that might allow rodents from entering a building, storing human and animal food, water and garbage in containers with tightly fitted lids, keeping yards clean and storing woodpiles above the ground and away from the home. When cleaning a home or community, be aware of animal droppings and nesting materials, and take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure. Dampening areas contaminated with rodent droppings with bleach disinfectant and removing droppings with a damp mop or cloth may reduce the chance the virus becoming airborne. Never remove droppings by dry sweeping or vacuuming.
For more detailed information about Hantavirus and how to prevent infection, please visit the Ministry of Health's website at www.health.gov.sk.ca/hantavirus.
