Page 90 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2026

HEALTHY LIVING
Hantavirus is a rare but serious disease carried by certain wild rodents. These rodents frequently inhabit homes, sheds, garages, barns, and woodpiles. The virus is present in their droppings, urine, and saliva. Recently, hantavirus drew public attention following a cruise ship incident involving infected passengers.
People are usually infected by inhaling airborne particles contaminated with the virus. This typically occurs when rodent droppings, nests, or other materials are encountered during activities like sweeping, cleaning, or entering spaces that have been unused for a long time. Less frequently, infection happens through contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth or nose, or from a rodent bite.
The highest risk arises when disturbing areas where rodents have lived. Merely being outdoors generally does not increase the chance of infection. Tasks like cleaning old sheds, garages, cabins, attics, or storage areas can create conditions for virus particles to become airborne.
Hantavirus is rarely spread from person to person, through pets, or by eating contaminated food. Since the virus cannot
be detected by sight, smell, or taste, people might be exposed without knowing it. While cases are rare, the disease can be severe, so prevention is important.
People in rural, suburban, and urban settings can be at risk
if rodents are present. Recognizing signs of rodent activity
and following safe cleaning practices helps lower the risk of infection. Before cleaning areas that may have had rodents, use recommended safety steps to avoid raising contaminated dust.
Public health agencies monitor rodent populations and track hantavirus cases. In affected areas, warning signs, educational resources, and information campaigns alert residents and visitors to potential risks. Specialists also aim to reduce rodent infestations by encouraging people to seal entry points and keep environments clean.
Researchers continue to study hantavirus to better understand its transmission, improve treatment options, and investigate vaccine development. These ongoing efforts aim to protect communities and lessen the impact of this dangerous disease.
story by Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray
90 | July 2026 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living