The Saskatoon Health Region has confirmed a case of Hantavirus. The disease is rare, but very serious.
The patient is under medical care, however, 30 per cent to 40 per cent of patients with the infection die.
There have been three confirmed cases of Hantavirus in Saskatchewan in 2013, all of which were confirmed within the last two months. The other two people who contracted the virus have since died.
Hantavirus is most often caused by breathing in contaminated particles in the air from the urine, droppings, and saliva of infected rodents, like deer mice. The particles become airborne when disturbed through activities like vacuuming our sweeping out buildings, specifically cabins, grain bins, or sheds that are infested by rodents. It isn’t contagious between people.
Symptoms are flu-like and include fever, muscle ache, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting.
To prevent Hantavirus infection, take proactive measures to prevent deer mice infestations, and always wear protective gear while cleaning out cabins, sheds, and other spaces open to rodent exposure.
