HANTAVIRUS WARNING ISSUED

Released on June 24, 2002

Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. David Butler-Jones today

issued a warning to Saskatchewan residents to take precautions against

hantavirus.



There was one case of hantavirus reported in the province earlier this

month. The patient was hospitalized but has since recovered. There have

been only eight cases of hantavirus reported in Saskatchewan since 1994;

one of these cases was related to travel outside of Canada.



"Hantavirus, though rare, can be a serious, and potentially fatal,

infectious disease," Butler-Jones 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. Farmers,

grain handlers, hikers, and cottagers are especially warned to take

precautions, and to thoroughly clean and disinfect rodent-infested

buildings, or articles removed from such buildings. This should be done

while wearing eye protection, 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 should seek immediate medical

attention.



For more detailed information about hantavirus and how to prevent

infection, visit the Saskatchewan Health Web site at www.health.gov.sk.ca.



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For more information, contact:



Jeff Brown

Saskatchewan Health

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-4088