Hantavirus is not a new risk to public health, and there is no evidence that it is increasing or spreading. The virus has existed in North America for many years, but was only recognized for the first time in May of 1993, in New Mexico. Since the infection was first diagnosed, research into medical records and blood samples has uncovered about 150 cases in North America, dating back to the 1950s. Eight of these cases occurred in Alberta and seven have been reported in B.C. including one fatality. Cases are generally concentrated among people who work at exceptionally close quarters with mice, such as researchers and people who kept mice as pets.
Most cases occur in rural areas.
Members of the public are asked to contact their local or regional public health services for further information.