The New Mexico Department of Health has reported the first case of hantavirus in the state this year. The individual infected is a man from San Juan County, who was hospitalized but has since been released and is recovering at home. The health department has identified deer mice as the primary carriers of hantavirus, often found in mouse droppings and urine. Symptoms of hantavirus typically appear within one to six weeks after exposure, making it important to seek medical attention if any potential exposure has occurred.
Hantavirus is a serious and potentially fatal respiratory disease spread by rodents, particularly deer mice. The virus can be transmitted to humans through breathing in air contaminated with the virus, most commonly from stirring up nesting materials or disturbing contaminated areas. Early symptoms of the virus include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, which can quickly progress to severe respiratory distress, requiring immediate medical attention.
Preventative measures to reduce the risk of hantavirus exposure include controlling rodent populations around homes and workplaces, sealing up any holes or gaps that could allow rodents to enter, and proper clean-up and disposal of rodent-infested areas. The New Mexico Department of Health is urging the public to take precautions and be vigilant in reducing the risk of hantavirus exposure, especially in areas where deer mice are known to be present.
It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential risk of hantavirus, especially in areas where deer mice are prevalent. Early recognition of symptoms and seeking prompt medical care is crucial in minimizing the severity of the illness. By taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of exposure and practicing good hygiene, the public can help prevent the spread of hantavirus and protect themselves from this potentially deadly virus.