Health Officials Give Reminder To Watch For Hantavirus

DOHWhat may seem like a harmless mouse nest may actually be cause for extra precautions. Dr. Lon Kightlinger, South Dakota state epidemiologist, says hantavirus isn’t extremely common, but should be in the back of peoples’ minds as summer brings different activities…

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Kightlinger says that there is usually a case each year of the disease the causes fever-like symptoms and fills the lungs with fluid. He says this time of year exposes people to summer gear that mice could have infested during the winter months…

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Kightlinger suggests sealing up gaps around roofs, attics, windows, air conditioners and pipes as well as trapping any existing mice. He recommends cleaning up nests with gloves and bleach to minimize any dust.