5th case of Hantavirus reported

SANTA FE (AP) - A fifth case of Hantavirus has been confirmed in New Mexico, The New Mexico Department of Health says a 59-year-old woman from McKinley County is hospitalized at University Hospital in critical condition with the infection.

Three people have died from Hantavirus in the state this year while a 39-year-old man from McKinley County has recovered from the infection, which is transmitted through rodents feces, urine and saliva.

People usually catch the infection by breathing in dust from areas of rodent infestations.

Early symptoms of Hantavirus infection include fever and muscle aches, possibly with chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cough, which progresses to respiratory distress.

Symptoms develop within one to six weeks after rodent exposure.

Chances for recovery are better if medical attention is sought early.