Putting Up Christmas Decorations Could be Deadly

Christmas decorations danger | Photo by Garolla Electric Garage Doors

Come again?

As Christmas is rapidly approaching, people are starting to go into their storage areas and drag out their Christmas decorations.

The weather's getting chilly at night and outside creatures are looking for a warm place to sleep.

Be aware of your surroundings

If you see droppings or evidence that mice have been around, proceed with caution.

Deer Mice are identified by their big ears and big eyes

A disease called Hantavirus is carried by deer mice that typically live outside. You might want to seal up those holes in your house so they don't bring their nasty disease inside.

This video offers a quick lesson in Deer Mice. I don't recommend the sticky traps because I feel they are inhumane. | Video by Solutions Pest and Lawn

What is Hantavirus?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe and potentially deadly disease that affects the lungs.Symptoms of HPS usually start to show 1 to 8 weeks after contact with an infected rodent."

"Early symptoms can include fatigue, fever, muscle aches (especially in the large muscle groups like the thighs, hips, back and sometimes shoulders). About half of all HPS patients also experience headaches, dizziness, chills and abdominal problems like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Four to 10 days after the initial phase of illness, the late symptoms of HPS appear. These symptoms include coughing and shortness of breath. Patients might experience tightness in the chest, as the lungs fill with fluid."—CDC

Is Hantavirus present in Southern California?

Yes ma'am/sir it is! A deer mouse found on October 22nd at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has tested positive for hantavirus.

The County just released an article titled Deer Mouse Tests Positive for Hantavirus yesterday. This lets you know to be on the alert. I like that the article offers safe methods to clean up the infected area.

Why Should I care?

HPS can be deadly. Thirty-eight percent of people who develop respiratory symptoms may die from the disease.

But it's good to know that not ALL deer mice are infected with HPS. Studies have found only about 3.2% of deer mice in San Diego County over a five-year period were infected.

Bottom line, be aware and proceed with caution!

Sources: County of San Diego Communications Office | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) | Solutions Pest and Lawn

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