Infection with hantavirus can progress to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which can be fatal. People become infected through contact with hantavirus-infected rodents or their urine and droppings. The Sin Nombre hantavirus, first recognized in 1993, is one of several New World hantaviruses circulating in the US. Old World hantaviruses, found in Asia, can cause Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS). Rodent control in and around the home remains the primary strategy for preventing hantavirus infection. All cases of Hantavirus infection are reported to and researched by the Viral Special Pathogens Branch (VSPB) of the CDC.
Outbreak of Hantavirus Infection in Yosemite National Park
As of September 13, the National Park Service (NPS) has announced a total of 9 confirmed cases of hantavirus infection in people who recently visited Yosemite National Park.
NPS public health officials believe that 8 of the 9 people with confirmed hantavirus infection were exposed to the virus while staying at the Signature Tent Cabins in Curry Village in Yosemite National Park. The other park visitor with hantavirus infection was probably exposed to the virus while hiking or staying at the High Sierra Camps, located about 15 miles from Curry Village.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
Facts About Hantavirus
"Facts About Hantavirus" Brochure [PDF - 182 KB]Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a group of clinically similar illnesses caused by hantaviruses from the family Bunyaviridae.
Information for Health Care Workers:
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