First 2024 case of hantavirus reported in New Mexico. Here's what officials want you to know
Feb. 20—The New Mexico Department of Health has confirmed the first case of the year of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
The case was reported in San Juan County where a man was hospitalized, but has since been let go and is recovering at home, a news release said.
The release said that in 2023 there were seven cases of hantavirus in McKinley, San Juan and Taos counties. Two cases resulted in death.
Deer mice are the primary carriers of the disease, and people are often exposed to it when cleaning out or exploring enclosed areas — such as homes, cabins or sheds with mouse droppings.
The symptoms, which can develop one to six weeks after exposure, start as flu-like with fever, muscle aches, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cough, which can progress to respiratory distress.
The department has shared these tips to prevent rodent exposure:
Air out buildings such as cabins and sheds, as well as abandoned or stored vehicles before entering.Trap mice until they are all gone.Seal up homes and shelters to prevent rodents from entering.Soak nests and droppings with a disinfectant such as a 10% bleach solution before cleaning them up.Do not sweep up rodent droppings into the air where they can be inhaled.Put hay, wood, and compost piles as far as possible from your home.Dispose of trash and junk piles.Do not leave your pet's food and water where mice can access it.
For information about the virus, visit nmhealth.org.
