90-Second Read: Guest Commentary: What Yakima residents need to know about recent Hantavirus reports

Hantavirus has received significant media attention in recent weeks because of a reported outbreak involving a cruise ship and a specific type of Hantavirus known as Andes virus. On May 2, the World Health Organization (WHO) was notified of several cases of serious respiratory illness among passengers and crew on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Health officials identified the cause as Andes virus, a type of Hantavirus that can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS).

As of May 15, there have been 11 cases reported, including eight confirmed cases, one inconclusive case and two probable cases. News reports also indicate that 18 American passengers were repatriated and are being monitored at specialized medical facilities. This is different from the Hantavirus most commonly seen in Washington state, which is Sin Nombre virus.

Fewer than five people are typically diagnosed with Hantavirus infection in the state each year. As always, at the Yakima Health District, we strive to deliver timely information to help the residents of Yakima County better understand and address their public health needs. Deer mice are the principal reservoir of Sin Nombre virus, the primary etiologic agent of Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome in North America.