Two of them had liver disease and bleeding consistent with viral hemorrhagic fever, the department said. Human Infections Rare Arenavirus infections have been found in rodents in Southern California in recent years, but human infections in North America have been rare, officials said. Several arenaviruses are known in parts of Africa and South America. They cause mild to severe infections characterized by fever, headache and occasionally severe bleeding or nervous system problems. State officials said the cause of the girl's death was confirmed after tests were done at the University of Texas Medical Branch.
Initial tests indicate arenavirus killed the two women, but additional tests are being conducted.
The department said the drug ribavirin has been used successfully in the treatment of arenavirus infections, but officials urged Californians to avoid contact with rodents and to take precautions when cleaning buildings with signs of rodent infestation. The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Click here for Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Internet Safety Information applicable to this site.