The presence of hantavirus in North America has been a concern since a deadly outbreak in 1993, which highlighted deer mice as carriers of the virus. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of New Mexico has revealed that more than 30 species of rodents and small mammals in the Southwest also carry the virus, including ground squirrels, chipmunks, gophers, rats, and even house mice.
Published in PLOS Pathogens, the study led by Dr. Steven Bradfute found genomic material from the sin nombre virus in a quarter of over 1,500 small mammals collected in New Mexico between 2019 and 2023. This discovery challenges the previous notion that only deer mice were responsible for hantavirus transmission.
The main mode of transmission to humans is through aerosolized droppings excreted by infected animals. The researchers were able to isolate live hantavirus from the salivary glands and lung tissue of these animals, indicating their potential as vectors for the disease.
One of the mysteries that the researchers are trying to unravel is why reported human hantavirus cases are concentrated in the Four Corners region of New Mexico, despite the presence of the virus in mammals throughout the state. Possible explanations include differences in the viral genetic sequence, unrecognized cases in other regions, or variations in viral transmission efficiency.
Precautions to prevent hantavirus infection include wearing N95 or KN-95 masks and gloves when handling rodent droppings, using a bleach solution to clean affected areas, and avoiding activities that generate aerosols. Unlike COVID-19, hantavirus is not spread from person to person and does not survive long in open air or sunlight.
While there is currently no specific treatment for hantavirus, efforts are underway to develop monoclonal antibody treatments that have shown promise in animal models. The key message from Dr. Bradfute is to take necessary precautions but not to be overly worried, as hantavirus transmission is relatively rare.
The study sheds light on the diverse range of small mammals that can carry hantavirus in New Mexico and emphasizes the importance of public awareness and preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.
