Hantavirus has been in the news quite a bit in 2025 and most recently public health officials in Mono County have confirmed a third death from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in Mammoth Lakes, California.

The latest victim, a young adult, is the most recent in a concerning string of fatalities linked to this serious and often deadly illness. HPS is transmitted through exposure to the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected deer mice, which are common throughout the Eastern Sierra region.

Officials expressed concern about the rising number of cases, particularly given how early in the year these incidents occurred. In this most recent case, there was no clear evidence of rodent activity in the victim’s home. While mice were observed in his workplace, this is not uncommon during colder months in the area.

Clark, your trusted neighbor for pest, rodent, lawn care, and termite control, we’re not looking to cause alarm, but we do want to educate Californians about hantavirus and the health risks rodents can pose.

What Is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus refers to a group of viruses carried primarily by deer mice. When these rodents shed the virus in their urine, feces, or saliva, it can become airborne through dust particles, a process called aerosolization. This is believed to be the most common way people to become infected. Although rare, hantavirus can also spread through rodent bites.

People are most at risk when cleaning out spaces where rodent infestations may be present such as cabins, garages, storage sheds, or underused homes. The California Department of Public Health urges residents to take extra precautions when entering or cleaning areas that could be contaminated by rodents.

Symptoms of Hantavirus

Hantavirus infection often starts like the flu. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Lower back pain

In more severe cases, HPS can progress rapidly to respiratory distress and even death. There is no specific treatment or vaccine for hantavirus, supportive care is the only option.

Prevention Starts with Rodent Control

The most effective way to prevent hantavirus is to keep deer mice and other rodents out of your home and property. Here’s how:

Hantavirus Prevention Tips:

• Have rodent infestations professionally addressed—especially in cabins and campsites—before occupying them.
• Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning potentially contaminated areas. Spray with a disinfectant or diluted bleach solution before cleaning and use wet mopping instead of sweeping or vacuuming.
• Avoid dry sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings, which can release virus particles into the air.
• Remove brush, junk, and wood piles from around your home.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house and keep surrounding vegetation trimmed.
• If you're trapping or handling small rodents, take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

Deer Mice: What You Should Know

The deer mouse, also called the white-footed mouse, is the most widely distributed mammal in North America. While they prefer forests, grasslands, and rural environments, they can enter homes that border these habitats, especially in colder months.

Deer mice are nocturnal and nest in hidden areas such as tree hollows, under rocks, and sometimes inside homes or buildings. Indoors, they may damage upholstered furniture, clothing, or paper items while building their nests. Their nests and droppings resemble those of common house mice, making them easy to overlook.

Trust Clark Pest Control for Rodent Solutions

Rodents aren’t just a nuisance; they’re a health hazard. At Clark Pest Control, we have decades of experience helping California homeowners protect their homes and families from rodent threats like hantavirus.

If you suspect rodent activity in or around your home, don’t wait. Call California’s trusted pest control experts at 800/WE-NEED-YOU or email us at clarkcares@clarkpest.com.

Until next time, thanks for trusting Clark Pest Control to help protect your home and yard from unwanted pests.