Hantavirus is drawing increased attention internationally following a deadly cruise ship outbreak, but University of Kentucky medical experts emphasize the risk to Kentucky residents remains minimal. According to a detailed explanation published by Kentucky Health News, the rare but serious virus has been tracked by the CDC since 1993.

Hantavirus is a family of rare but serious viruses that can cause illnesses such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). Dr. Nicholas Van Sickles, medical director of infection prevention and control at the University of Kentucky, said the risk to the general population is very, very low.

The Barren River District Health Department confirmed there are no suspected or confirmed cases of hantavirus in Kentucky. There has only been one reported hantavirus case in Kentucky since 1995, and it was travel-related.

Most cases of hantavirus are linked to rodent exposure. These viruses are typically spread through exposure to rodents — particularly deer mice and white footed mice in Kentucky — most commonly through rodent droppings, urine or saliva while cleaning enclosed or dusty spaces.

The CDC says symptoms can initially resemble the flu and may include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. In severe cases, the illness can progress to coughing and shortness of breath as the lungs fill with fluid. Symptoms usually begin one to eight weeks after contact with an infected rodent or exposure to contaminated materials.

Kentucky's top health official isn't too concerned about the hantavirus becoming a larger issue, saying it is unlikely that this is going to become another COVID. Health officials said the greatest risk for most residents would come from activities involving rodent exposure, particularly while cleaning enclosed areas such as barns, sheds, garages, storage buildings, or cabins where rodents may have nested.

Residents can reduce their risk by sealing holes and gaps in homes and garages, placing rodent traps, and removing easy-to-find food sources that might attract rodents.