Potentially lethal virus found in 3 wild mice in East County

SAN DIEGO – San Diego County's vector control officials on Tuesday urged locals to protect themselves from wild rodents after discovering three potentially fatal mice that carry hantavirus.

The vector control agents gathered the mice on Boulevard during a regular monitoring exercise. Hantavirus occurrences in wild rodents are not uncommon in undeveloped areas of the county, but residents can avoid potentially infected rodents by moving them away from areas such as sheds, garages and homes.

Vector control authorities also discovered five hantavirus-bearing mice at Bonsall, 4S Ranch and Potrero in January.

There is no cure or vaccine against hantavirus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of the infection may include fever, muscle aches in large muscle groups, dizziness, digestive problems and abdominal pain. An infection with hantavirus is usually unlikely because rodents tend to avoid humans and developed spaces.

Residents are advised to use "wet cleaning" methods such as a bleach spray or a sponge and mop if they find droppings or rodent nests. Sweeping or vacuuming nests and feces can spread the virus in the air, increasing the risk of infection. Vector control also advises residents to double and seal rodent debris before disposing of it.

Residents can avoid exposure to hantavirus by plugging holes larger than 10 cents into homes and adjacent spaces and quickly clearing debris and rodent infestations. Residents can contact the county's Department of Environmental Health at (858) 694-2888 for more information on preventing hantavirus infections.