90-Second Read: What parents should know about talking to kids about Hantavirus

As Hantavirus makes headlines, an expert shares what parents should know about symptoms, prevention and how to talk to kids without causing fear. Most families are at very low risk in their everyday lives." She added that awareness, not panic, should be the focus for families talking to children about the virus. Altmann urged parents to keep current risks in perspective when talking to their kids about Hantavirus. As concerns around Hantavirus continue to make headlines, many parents may be wondering how to answer questions from worried kids without causing panic. Hantavirus, a family of viruses that can cause serious illness and death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has recently been in the news following an outbreak aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius, which departed.

The important thing for parents to know is that while headlines can sound alarming, Hantavirus infections remain very uncommon in the United States. Former White House COVID-19 response coordinator answers Hantavirus questions "Families should be more cautious in rural or wooded areas, while camping, opening seasonal cabins, cleaning storage spaces or spending time in places with signs of mice or rodent activity. In the U.S., Hantavirus is overwhelmingly linked to rodent exposure, not everyday interactions with other people." She added that parents should not avoid outdoor activities altogether because of the recent headlines. Prevention and knowing when to seek medical care is what I have been sharing with parents in my practice. Simply traveling, going on a cruise ship, being outdoors or going camping does not mean a child is.

According to Altmann, Hantavirus is most commonly spread when tiny particles from rodent urine or droppings become airborne and are inhaled. Parents should contact their pediatrician promptly if their child develops significant flu-like symptoms after a known rodent exposure or after spending time cleaning or staying in a rodent-infested space. Hantavirus is rare, but prevention and awareness go a long way." For more information about Hantavirus, including symptoms, prevention and safety guidance, families can visit the CDC's Hantavirus resource page. Most families are at very low risk in their everyday lives.\" She added that awareness, not panic, should be the focus for families talking to children about the virus. To date, two people are confirmed to have died from the virus -- a third person is suspected to have died.

One misconception is that Hantavirus is spreading casually from person to person like a cold or flu virus. Hantavirus outbreak origin still a mystery, medical experts address theories "Outdoor play, hiking and nature are incredibly healthy for children and families. Parents simply need to use common-sense precautions around rodents and enclosed spaces that may contain droppings." "The biggest message I want parents to hear is: stay informed, not fearful," Altmann added. The increased media attention may leave some children with questions or fears about the virus, particularly those who may remember the COVID-19 pandemic. Prevention and knowing when to seek medical care is what I have been sharing with parents in my practice,\" Altmann said.