Study finds deadly hantavirus more widespread in Pacific Northwest rodents than expected

Key Points:

• A new study in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho found that nearly 30% of rodents tested had past infection with the Sin Nombre hantavirus, and about 10% were actively infected, suggesting the virus is more common in local rodent populations than previously known.
• The Sin Nombre virus, which causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome with a 36% fatality rate, is primarily carried by deer mice and can infect humans through inhalation of airborne particles from rodent droppings and urine.
• Researchers produced the first full genome sequences of Sin Nombre virus strains from the Northwest, revealing high genetic diversity and viral reassortment, which can aid in tracking virus evolution and improving public health surveillance.
• Despite the high prevalence in rodents, human hantavirus cases remain rare, possibly due to underdiagnosis, and researchers aim to study human exposure rates and risk factors further to better understand disease transmission.
• Health officials advise precautions when cleaning areas with rodent presence, recommending ventilation and wet-cleaning methods to minimize inhalation of virus particles, and cautioning against sweeping or using leaf blowers in enclosed spaces.