Three people in Mammoth Lakes, California, have died of hantavirus in early 2025, a concerning spike in cases. Mono County health officials noted there were no significant rodent infestations at their homes, but mice were found at their workplaces. Dr. Tom Boo emphasized that the typical exposure risks were not present and encouraged vigilance around mouse waste. Hantavirus, contracted through infected deer mouse particles, does not transmit between humans and typically presents with flu-like symptoms. Mono County has the highest case count in California since 1993, with public health officials urging caution.
A third case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), each of which has been fatal, is tragic and alarming. We don't have a clear sense of where this young adult may have contracted the virus.
We should pay attention to the presence of mice and be careful around their waste, noting that these recent deaths did not involve the typical risk factors associated with infection.
Hantavirus is contracted by inhaling particles from the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected deer mice, a species common in the Eastern Sierra.
Hantavirus begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, nausea, and abdominal pain. A cough can develop.
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