Public health officials with Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care are advising Manitobans that the hantavirus present in Manitoba is a different strain from the one linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship outbreak in early May.
There have been no reported cases of Sin Nombre hantavirus infection in Manitoba since 2016 and the overall risk of contracting hantavirus in the province remains low.
The strain of hantavirus present in Manitoba (Sin Nombre virus) spreads primarily through the inhalation of airborne particles, which most often occurs when dried rodent droppings, urine or saliva are disturbed during cleaning activities. It is not known to spread person-to-person.
The strain identified in South America (Andes virus) is associated with the Dutch-flagged cruise ship outbreak. It rarely spreads between people. It is not found in Manitoba rodents and no cases or contacts associated with the Andes virus outbreak have been identified in the province.
To reduce the risk of infection, Manitobans can protect themselves by preventing rodent infestations and taking precautionary measures in rodent-contaminated environments.
For more information, including how to rodent-proof your home, yard and outbuildings, and how to safely clean up after rodents, visit gov.mb.ca.
