Ontario County Public Health is investigating a suspected case of locally acquired hantavirus, though officials stress there is no connection to the hantavirus outbreak currently making headlines aboard a cruise ship and no risk to the general public.
Health officials said human hantavirus infections are rare in New York State, with only a handful of reported cases since the disease became reportable in 1995.
According to the department, hantavirus in the United States is primarily spread through exposure to infected mouse and rodent droppings. The virus can become airborne when contaminated urine, feces, or saliva are disturbed during activities such as sweeping, vacuuming, or cleaning enclosed spaces.
Officials said the strains of hantavirus commonly found in the United States are not spread from person to person. The only known hantavirus capable of human-to-human transmission is the Andes virus, which is found in rodents in Argentina and Chile and is linked to the current cruise ship outbreak, receiving national attention.
Ontario County Public Health is using the investigation as an opportunity to remind residents to take precautions while cleaning attics, sheds, cabins, and other areas where rodents may be present this spring.
Recommended safety measures include wearing masks and gloves while cleaning potentially contaminated areas and thoroughly washing hands and clothing afterward.
Public Health Director Kate Ott said the department does not typically issue public statements during investigations of this nature, but felt it was important to address community concerns.
“With the current cruise ship outbreak, the influence of social media, and perceived public anxiety, I feel it is prudent to address the current investigation and reassure the community,” Ott said.
