The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) has confirmed this year’s first case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) coming from a traveler to the county from outside the state. 

According to the CCPHSD, the current HPS case is the county’s sixth since 2007. The infected individual had traveled to several areas in northern Arizona and it is unknown where the individual contracted the virus.

HPS is transmitted through contact with or breathing infected urine, droppings or salvia of wild mice, mostly deer mice. Fever, headache, muscle aches and quick progression to difficulty breathing are among the symptoms of HPS. The CCPHSD is asking anyone with these symptoms to see their doctor immediately and tell the physician about their exposure to rodents.

 CCPHSD public health officials offer the following cleaning recommendations to any areas with rodent activity:

• Before cleaning, open all doors and widows for 30 minutes and allow direct sunlight in the area.
• Do not vacuum or sweep the area as this will cause virus particles to get into the air.
• Spray any areas with rodent droppings or nests with household disinfectant and allow to soak for 15 minutes.

Health officials also recommend plugging and sealing any holes or gaps to the outside of your home, remove any woodpiles, lumber, hay bales from around the house, do not leave pet food in dishes and use rodent traps.

For a complete list of recommendations and tips list cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps or call 928-679-8750.