As the temperatures rise and outdoor activities become more prevalent, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks of animal-borne illnesses, reports the Plumas County Public Health Agency. Hantavirus and rabies are two such illnesses that can pose serious health threats to humans.
Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a potentially deadly virus transmitted to humans primarily through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. Humans catch it by breathing the air near the infected droppings of deer mice who have nested in an enclosed space, often over the winter. Sheds, cabins and even camp trailers can harbor these mice and the hantavirus they carry.
Symptoms of hantavirus infection may include fever, muscle aches, fatigue and respiratory problems. In severe cases, it can lead to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe respiratory illness with a high mortality rate.
Public health recommends the following method for cleaning an area with rodent nests or droppings:
- Air out the area for a couple of hours.
- Use gloves and masks when cleaning; do not sweep or vacuum.
- Spray the droppings/nest until wet with a 10% household bleach solution (1 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water).
- Clean with paper towels and dispose of them in a garbage bag, which must be tied shut.
For more information regarding hantavirus visit the CDPH hantavirus website.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. While it can infect any mammal, including humans, it is most commonly associated with dogs, bats, raccoons and foxes. Warmer weather often means more outdoor activities, increasing the chances of encounters with potentially rabid animals. Public health points out that it’s important to be vigilant, especially around wildlife, and to ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies.
Symptoms of rabies in humans may initially include fever and headache, but as the disease progresses it can lead to hallucinations, paralysis and ultimately death.
Public health shares the following rabies prevention strategies:
- Vaccinate pets against rabies and keep their vaccinations up to date.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially if they appear sick or behave strangely.
- If bitten by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
For more information regarding rabies visit the Plumas County Vector and Rabies Control website.
“By staying informed and practicing simple preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of hantavirus and rabies transmission in our communities,” said Lori Beatley, public information officer for Plumas County Public Health Agency.
For more information about PCPHA, visit https://www.plumascounty.us/3219/Plumas-County-Public-Health-Agency.
Information provided by Plumas County Public Health Agency
