Sin_Nombre_virus Widespread in Pacific_Northwest Rodents

A new study led by Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine has revealed that the Sin Nombre virus, a hantavirus causing a deadly respiratory disease in humans, is more widespread among rodent populations in parts of the Pacific Northwest than previously recognized. The study, published in the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Emerging Infectious Diseases journal, found that nearly 30% of rodents in the Palouse region of United States — Washington (state) and United States — Idaho showed evidence of past infection, with about 10% actively carrying the virus. Stephanie Seifert, the lead researcher, expressed surprise at the high local prevalence and lack of prior data. The virus is primarily maintained in Peromyscus populations but was also found in Vole, suggesting inter-species transmission. Human infections typically occur through inhaling airborne particles from contaminated rodent droppings or urine. While human cases remain rare, health officials recommend wet-cleaning methods to reduce exposure risk. The study also produced the first full genome sequences of Sin Nombre virus strains from the Northwest, aiding in tracking viral evolution. The findings raise questions about potential unnoticed human infections and the need for further research into human exposure and disease progression. The Andes virus, a different hantavirus, was also mentioned for its human-to-human transmissibility, contrasting with the Sin Nombre virus.