Two cases of hantavirus have been confirmed in Nevada, according to officials from the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services and the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Residents are advised to be cautious when cleaning or entering areas where deer mice may have nested or left droppings.
Deer mice are widespread throughout Nevada and can carry the hantavirus, which causes a rare but serious respiratory disease. The virus is transmitted through contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva.
To prevent exposure, residents can take several precautions. These include:
– Air out enclosed spaces by opening windows and doors for at least 30 minutes before cleaning
– Avoid sweeping or vacuuming contaminated areas, instead using a disinfectant solution to wipe up dust
– Wear gloves and an N95 mask when cleaning areas with signs of rodent activity
– Keep areas clean and free of clutter or food sources
– Seal all food containers for pets, livestock, or bird feeders
– Secure garbage in tight-fitting containers
– Clear overgrown vegetation and remove clutter such as woodpiles and brush
Residents are also advised to use rodent/mouse deterrents, seal gaps and cracks, repair screens on windows and doors, and consider installing motion-activated sprinklers. For more information, visit the Nevada Office of State Epidemiology website.
Source: https://www.fox5vegas.com/2025/06/12/two-hantavirus-cases-confirmed-nevada