The Rare Virus That Colorado Residents Need To Know About

The Hantavirus is one scary illness. After coming to light last year with Gene Hackman's death, the Hantavirus seems to be showing up more and more, and frankly, it's kind of scary.

What is the Hantavirus?

According to the CDC, The Hantavirus is a rare but deadly virus spread by mouse droppings, saliva, urine, and dust contaminated by rodents. If you live or work around mice, it's important to stay safe to avoid catching this awful sickness.

How can you avoid catching the Hantavisus?

Don't vacuum or dust up rodent droppings, as that will only kick up dust and make the virus more airborne. Instead, spray the droppings with a disinfectant and wipe them away.

Be sure to air out closed spaces like Rv's, cabins, or houses, storage units, and sheds. Let these areas air out before coming in to clean.

It's the golden rule, and it always has been. I'm talking about washing your hands. While the Hantavirus is mostly an airborne illness, it can also be spread by dirty hands.

Keep all food sealed up so the rodents can't get in and ruin the entire package.

What are the symptoms of the Hantavirus?

• Chills
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Muscle Fatigue

News of the Hantavirus in Colorado

Sadly, in recent weeks, there have been a handful of Hantavirus cases in Colorado, including one confirmed death in Douglas County and a positive test in Arapahoe County.

Coloradoans are more likely to run into the Sin Nombray strain. Colorado is sadly considered a particularly bad hotspot in the country.

So be safe and always wash your hands.