Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has confirmed the death of a 65-year-old woman from Santa Fe County due to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). This marks the first reported case in New Mexico for this year.

Hantavirus is a severe respiratory illness caused by the Sin Nombre virus. It is transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings, or saliva. The virus can become airborne when disturbed, posing an inhalation risk. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission in New Mexico.

“This tragic death reminds us that hantavirus remains a serious public health concern in our state,” said Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH. “While cases are relatively rare, the mortality rate is significant. We urge New Mexicans to take preventative measures seriously, particularly when cleaning areas where rodents may have been present.”

The deer mouse is identified as the main carrier for Sin Nombre virus in New Mexico. People are usually exposed to the virus around their homes, cabins, or sheds, especially when they clean out or explore enclosed and poorly ventilated areas with mouse droppings.

For further information about hantavirus or this press release, Robert Nott can be contacted at the NMDOH office.

In an effort to make press releases more accessible, a Spanish version of this announcement is also available via a provided link.