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. As concerns around Hantavirus continue to make headlines, many parents may be wondering how to answer questions from worried kids without causing panic. Altmann urged parents to keep current risks in perspective when talking to their kids about Hantavirus. 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 from Argentina in early April.

The important thing for parents to know is that while headlines can sound alarming, Hantavirus infections remain very uncommon in the United States. According to Altmann, Hantavirus is most commonly spread when tiny particles from rodent urine or droppings become airborne and are inhaled. Simply traveling, going on a cruise ship, being outdoors or going camping does not mean a child is likely to get Hantavirus. This can happen when cleaning enclosed spaces such as cabins, sheds, garages, attics or RVs where rodents have been present.

Still, she emphasized that most everyday activities do not put children at high risk. 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. One misconception is that Hantavirus is spreading casually from person to person like a cold or flu virus. The increased media attention may leave some children with questions or fears about the virus, particularly those who may remember the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead, she advises ventilating the area first and cleaning with disinfectant while wearing gloves. Altmann also recommends families keep food sealed and dispose of trash properly when camping; avoid sleeping in spaces with visible rodent activity; seal holes or gaps in homes, garages, and cabins where mice can enter; and teach kids not to touch rodents, nests or droppings.