Residents warned to take precautions against Hantavirus

RED DEER –  Following confirmation of Hantavirus in two central Alberta residents, Alberta Health Services is reminding Albertans to take simple precautions to protect themselves from illness.

"Although Hantavirus infection is rare, it can be fatal” says Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services, Central Zone "Anyone who comes into contact with mice, mice droppings, urine or saliva is at risk. However, a few simple precautions can greatly reduce the hazard."

To clean mouse droppings, nests, or dead mice found in enclosed spaces, follow these steps:

• Open doors and windows for ventilation and keep out of the area for at least 30 minutes.
• Try not to disturb any droppings, nests or dead mice.
• Do not vacuum or sweep droppings, nests or dead mice. This can create dust that can be inhaled. The dust may contain Hantavirus.
• Wearing rubber gloves, thoroughly soak droppings, nests and dead mice with a bleach/water solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) or a household disinfectant. Let sit for five minutes.  
• Mop up disinfected materials or pick them up with paper towels, and place them in a plastic bag.
• Seal the bag and put in a garbage container with a tight fitting lid. 
• Wash your gloves before removing, and then wash your hands.
• For significant mouse infestations or for enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, contact Health Link Alberta to discuss necessary special precautions.

In addition to these tips, Hinshaw says “anyone who develops severe flu-like symptoms and difficulty breathing and has recently been in an area contaminated by mice should see a doctor immediately.”

Individuals infected with Hantavirus generally show symptoms one or two weeks after exposure, however symptoms have been know to appear up to five weeks after exposure.  Symptoms resemble severe flu, including fever, body aches, chills, abdominal problems and severe breathing problems.

Since 2000, 19 cases of Hantavirus have been confirmed in Alberta, not including the cases confirmed today.

For more information on Hantavirus, call Health Link Alberta 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at
403-943-LINK (5465), 780-408-LINK (5465), or, outside the local calling area, toll-free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.7 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.