A Western Harvest mouse in Mission Trails, San Diego County, was recently found to carry the dangerous and potentially deadly Hantavirus, marking the first local virus detection this year, county health officials reported.

The discovery doesn't come as a complete shock since the region is no stranger to hantavirus, with reports of 17 cases in the previous year. Though the chances of humans contracting the disease directly from these naturally shy and human-avoiding creatures is relatively slim, the situation demands vigilance because there is no cure or vaccine for hantavirus. The disease can be severe with symptoms like intense muscle aches, chills, fever, fatigue, headaches, and difficulty breathing that can surface anywhere from 1-8 weeks post-exposure.

Highlighting the importance of prompt medical care, health officials advise that anyone suspecting they might have been exposed to hantavirus should seek immediate medical attention, as the virus can escalate rapidly, leading to severe respiratory issues.

When it comes to prevention, the best defense is maintaining a firm boundary between humans and wild rodents; sealing all holes larger than a dime in homes, garages, and sheds and addressing any rodent infestations immediately is key for keeping these pests at bay, experts recommend using "wet cleaning" methods—such as disinfectants and bleach solution—rigorously and disposing of gloves and any cleanup materials properly to avoid stirring potentially virus-ladened dust into the air where it could be inhaled, these practical steps are outlined on the hantavirus information page provided by the County Environmental Health and Quality.

For additional guidance or questions regarding safety precautions or hantavirus, residents can contact the County Environmental Health and Quality directly at (858) 694-2888 or by visiting their online resource.