The recent suspected hantavirus case in Illinois serves as a reminder that this potentially deadly virus remains present in the U.S. Currently, no cases in the U.S. link to the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak. The Andes strain, which resulted in fatalities on the ship, is not found in North America.

The Sin Nombre Virus: A U.S. Concern

The Sin Nombre virus, a type of hantavirus in the U.S., causes a potentially fatal lung syndrome. This virus spreads from rodents to humans when infected urine, saliva, or feces particles become airborne. Arizona records high infection numbers, and recent studies identify Virginia, Colorado, and Texas as emerging hotspots.

Virginia Tech scientists discovered that as many as 15 different rodent species, including the deer mouse, carry hantavirus, especially in Virginia, Colorado, and Texas. Published in the journal Ecosphere, this study identified six new rodent species as potential virus hosts.

“We see human cases in states like New Mexico, but if you want to capture a rodent that is infected, Virginia emerges as a hot spot,” Luis Escobar, Virginia Tech

Escobar initiated this research post-pandemic to explore virus transmission from animals to humans. While hantavirus can have a fatality rate as high as 50%, human-to-human transmission is mainly associated with the Andes strain.

Understanding Emerging Risks

Health authorities maintain no sign of a pandemic threat from the recent outbreak. However, reports of hantavirus cases in the U.S. could increase with warmer weather.

“It is important for everyone to understand that these routine seasonal cases are separate from the MV Hondius outbreak,” Dr. David Fitter, CDC

Escobar’s research involved testing over 14,000 rodent blood samples across the U.S. from 2014 to 2019. He briefed CDC scientists on his findings, highlighting potential zoonotic threats.

Having hantavirus-infected rodents nearby does not necessarily put humans at risk. Since 1993, 890 hantavirus cases have been reported in the U.S., with most occurring in Western states.

Patterns and Prevention

Virginia reported only two cases, despite being considered a hotspot in Escobar’s study. Approximately 35% of U.S. cases have resulted in death, drawing attention to the risks posed by this rare illness.

Morgan Gorris, from Los Alamos National Laboratory, indicated that arid conditions in the West increase infection likelihood. Drier air can make rodent excrement airborne more easily.

“There is such a connection between humans, animals and the environment,” Gorris noted.

Reducing Risk

The Illinois Department of Public Health is investigating a recent infection potentially linked to cleaning a house with rodent droppings. They emphasize avoiding contact with rodents and their droppings to reduce risk.

Safety Measures to Follow

• Ventilate areas by opening windows and doors for 30 minutes.
• Wear rubber or plastic gloves during cleaning.
• Avoid vacuuming or sweeping to prevent spreading the virus.
• Disinfect droppings and urine with a bleach solution before cleaning.
• Dispose of used towels in a covered garbage container.
• Use disinfectant on all hard surfaces.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning.