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Local Health Experts Assure El Pasoans: Hantavirus Risk Remains Low

KVIA••Rishi Oza
Medical stethoscope representing healthcare news

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Recent concerns about Hantavirus, highlighted by cases on a cruise ship, have prompted local health officials to reassure El Paso residents. Dr. Armando Meza from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center stated that El Paso is not an endemic area for Hantavirus, with no reported cases in the region. While Texas has recorded 49 cases since 1993, most have occurred in Northern New Mexico. Residents are advised to exercise caution when handling rodent droppings due to potential infections, but the overall risk in El Paso remains minimal. The virus is not easily transmitted between humans, further reducing concerns.

Key Details: • El Paso has not reported any Hantavirus cases. • Texas has 49 cases since 1993; most are in Northern New Mexico. • Be cautious when handling rodent droppings to avoid other infections. • Hantavirus is unlikely to spread like COVID-19.

el-paso health public-health disease hantavirus

People & Organizations

El PasoDoña Ana CountyNew MexicoCDCOtero CountyLincoln CountyDr. Armando MezaGene HackmanTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center

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