Hantavirus Remains Health Threat in Wyoming

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Department of Health says hantavirus infection remains a potential health threat in the state.

Eleven human hantavirus cases, including six that resulted in death, have been reported in Wyoming since 1999.

Infected rodents can infest garages, campers, cabins and barns and shed hantavirus through urine, droppings and saliva.

People can become seriously ill if they are exposed.

Clay Van Houten of the state Health Department says people need to be aware of the threat and be cautious, especially if they are going into places that have been closed for a while.