Trap tests positive for hantavirus

San Diego County health officials say a deer mouse trap in Fallbrook tested positive for hantavirus.

The county Department of Environmental Health said Tuesday the virus, typically found in wild rodent droppings and urine, can be inhaled by humans when it becomes airborne. It can cause a rare and potentially fatal illness called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

The mouse was found during routine monitoring of an open space near the intersection of Highway 76 and Interstate 15. It is the fifth mouse to test positive for the virus this year. Routine tests confirm between two and eight cases a year.

-- Press Democrat news services

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