Released on December 24, 2002
Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer today issued a warning toSaskatchewan residents to take precautions against hantavirus.
A recent case of hantavirus has been reported, prompting Dr. Ross Findlater
to remind the public that the disease is a concern throughout the year.
This is the ninth case of hantavirus reported in Saskatchewan since 1994.
"Hantavirus, though rare, can be a serious, and potentially fatal,
infectious disease," Findlater said. "It begins with flu-like symptoms and
can progress into severe lung infection that makes it difficult to
breathe."
The primary carriers of hantavirus are deer mice, and the disease is
transmitted to humans through contaminated airborne particles. People are
asked to take year-round precautions when entering rodent-infested
buildings, or handling articles removed from such buildings. Preventive
measures include wearing eye protection, coveralls, a well-fitting filter
mask, and rubber gloves.
Hantavirus begins with fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, nausea and
vomiting. Individuals who develop a fever or respiratory illness within
one to six weeks of potential exposure to mice-infested structures should
seek immediate medical attention.
For more detailed information about hantavirus and how to prevent
infection, please visit the Saskatchewan Health Web site at
www.health.gov.sk.ca/reading_room.html.
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For more information, contact:
Myrna Stark Leader
Health
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-4083