COLFAX, WA – Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) has confirmed the first death from Hantavirus in the county. The positive lab result was reported on February 16th. The individual had known local exposure to rodents prior to the illness. This marks the first confirmed case of Hantavirus in Washington State this year. Historically, the state reports one to five cases annually.
Hantavirus can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare but serious lung disease. The virus is found in the urine, droppings, and saliva of infected rodents, with deer mice being the primary carriers in Washington. It spreads through inhalation of dust contaminated with rodent waste, often in enclosed areas such as sheds, cabins, or vehicles. The virus does not spread from person to person.
Symptoms typically appear one to eight weeks after exposure. Early signs include fever, muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Late symptoms, appearing three to five days after initial signs, include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness due to fluid buildup in the lungs. Hospitalization is often required, and the fatality rate exceeds one-third of cases. There is no cure, though supportive care may improve outcomes.
To prevent Hantavirus, WCPH advises sealing openings larger than ¼ inch, using snap traps indoors, storing food in rodent-proof containers, keeping woodpiles at least 100 feet from homes, and inspecting vehicles regularly. When cleaning areas with potential rodent contamination, officials recommend airing out spaces for at least 30 minutes, avoiding sweeping or vacuuming, and disinfecting surfaces with a 10% bleach solution before cleanup.
For more information on Hantavirus and prevention methods, visit the CDC’s Hantavirus page at https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/about/index.html.