Four wild mice collected near Campo were positive for hantavirus

CAMPO, California (KGTV) - Four wild mice collected during routine surveillance in the Campo region tested positive for hantavirus, according to the county health agency.

The mice collected in Campo in the open field included two California mice, a deer mouse and a brush mouse.

The mice increased the total number of rodents tested positive for the virus in the county this year to 22.

Health officials say people are unlikely to be exposed to the virus because rodents generally live and want to nest away from people.

The county also reminds residents never to sweep or vacuum rodents when they live in rooms such as houses, sheds, or garages. Instead, people are encouraged to use "wet cleaning methods".

Humans are exposed to the Hanta virus when urine, feces and saliva become dry and tremble and breathed in the air.

There is no cure or vaccination for the virus and it is life threatening, the county says.

Read the following tips on using wet cleaning methods:

Avoid exposure to hantavirus

· Seal all outer holes in houses, garages and sheds that are larger than a penny to prevent rodents from entering.

Remove rodent infestation immediately.

· Avoid areas affected by rodents and do not shake dust or materials that may be contaminated with feces and urine from rodents.

· Clean rodent droppings and urine using the wet cleaning method described below.

Use "wet cleaning methods" to avoid inhaling the virus.

· Do not sweep infested areas.

Ventilate the affected area by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.

· Wear rubber gloves. Spray a 10% bleach solution or other disinfectant on dead rodents, rodent droppings, nests, contaminated traps and the surrounding area and let the disinfectant take effect for at least 15 minutes before cleaning.

· Clean with a sponge or mop soaked in disinfectant.

Put rodents and disinfected waste in two plastic bags, seal them and throw them in the trash.

Wash the gloves with a bleaching solution, then with soap and water and dispose of them using the same double bag method.

Wash your hands well with soap and water.

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