On September 1st 2009 the County of San Diego released its finding in an official news release. A mouse was trapped in San Luis Rey River area near Bonsall has been confirmed, the mouse tested positive for hantavirus. This is the fourth mouse found with the hantavirus this year.
Hantavirus is carried by wild rodents, primarily deer mice. The virus is found in rodent droppings and urine and can be inhaled by humans when it becomes airborne. The airborne virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which can begin with symptoms similar to the flu, but in rare cases, can lead to severe breathing difficulties and even death. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for hantavirus.
Several precautions should be taken to avoid exposure:
- Eliminate rodent infestations immediately.
- Avoid rodent infested areas and do not stir up dust or materials that may be contaminated with rodent droppings and urine.
- Clean up rodent droppings and urine using the wet cleaning method described below.
Please read the following news release issued by the county, they offer lots of information on this subject.
If you find that you do have a rodent infestation contact your local pest professional. Clark Pest Control's San Diego branch does handle rodent control, to find out if you are in their area of coverage please visit the Clark San Diego Pest Control's Branch page at http://www.clarkpest.com/branch_office_san_diego.html.