They're cute (to some) as they scurry about but be forwarned, they could cause you problems - even death.
Saskatchewan health officials are reminding residents to take precautions following confirmation of the province's first fatal case of hantavirus this year. The death occurred in an adult from southern Saskatchewan.
Hantavirus infection is a rare but potentially fatal illness. The virus is transmitted by breathing in contaminated airborne particles from the droppings, urine and saliva of infected deer mice.
Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting. In rare cases, people develop a very severe and often fatal lung disease known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.
"If you develop a fever, muscle aches, coughing and shortness of breath within one to six weeks of exposure to mouse-infested areas, you need to seek immediate medical attention," cautions Saskatchewan's Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer Denise Werker.
While the chance of contracting hantavirus infection in Saskatchewan is currently low; deer mice can be found in all areas of the province. Therefore people are reminded to take precautions when camping, opening their cottage, getting their RV or boat ready for the season, moving woodpiles or cleaning out buildings.
Experts say exposure to hantavirus can be reduced by avoiding contact with rodents and contaminated airborne particles. Block openings that might allow rodents to enter a building; Store human and animal food, water and garbage in containers with tightly-fitted lids; Be aware of animal droppings and nesting materials when cleaning a home or other buildings.
Also, when cleaning rodent-infested areas, people are advised to reduce the risk of contaminated air particles becoming airborne, and prevent direct contact and inhalation.
There have been 27 cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome reported in Saskatchewan since 1994, nine of which resulted in death. The average number of cases per year ranges from zero to four.
For more information visit the Ministry of Health's website at www.health.gov.sk.ca/hantavirus and HealthLine Online at www.health.gov.sk.ca/healthline-online.
They may be little but they can cause you harm so take care out there!
