Watch for Hantavirus this spring

Sask residents are being reminded to take precautions against hantavirus as they start spring cleanup of buildings or vehicles.

Hantavirus infection is caused by breathing in contaminated airborne particles from the droppings, urine and saliva of infected deer mice. It can cause a rare, but potentially fatal lung disease known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

focused on protecting public safety. FASST will play an important role in promoting safe, secure communities.

The support the team will provide in apprehending fugitives will free up other police resources to focus on priorities such as ongoing criminal investigations and community policing efforts.

Recruiting and training for the team will begin this fall, which is expected to be fully operational by March 2024.

“Exposure most often occurs when cleaning up sheds, barns, garages, cabins, or vehicles after winter,” said Sask’s Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Julie Kryzanowski. Some people develop severe symptoms that can be life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately if you have a cough, fever and shortness of breath.