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Media Credit: cdc.gov The early symptoms of HPS

Media Credit: cdc.gov The late symptoms of HPS

The mice that were invading Dow Hall in December 2007 were much more than a hassle to the residents. Unfortunately, residents could have potentially been harmed by Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS).

HPS is a respiratory illness caused by Hantaviruses which are found in the urine, saliva, and droppings of rodents, including the deer mouse. The deer mouse is typically found in natural habitats on the West coast; but when odds meet, they will find other habitats to live in.

Doctors believe that HPS infects the respiratory system when airborne particles are inhaled from the rodent's urine, direct contact of the rodent's urine, saliva, or feces, or being exposed to dust particles that have been contaminated.

Those infected with HPS complain of symptoms such as fevers, headaches, muscle aches, coughing, and shortness of breath. Uncommon symptoms include earaches, sore throats, runny noses, and rashes.

Since this disease is so rare it is uncertain how soon symptoms appear. However, with research on those who have been affected, information gathered shows that it takes approximately one to five weeks for symptoms to appear after being exposed.

If symptoms are treated early, treatment is more effective. Patients who are in intensive care are incubated and given oxygen to help assist with the respiratory distress state. The longer it takes for treatment to occur, the less effective it is.

Those who became ill reported no sightings of rodents or their droppings, or had numerous encounters with the rodents themselves.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the best preventive measure of contamination is controlling rodents in the homes. In other words, keep the rodents out.

Reference

The Center for Disease and Control Prevention (2004). All about hantaviruses.

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