Local case of hantavirus

A Mammoth Lakes woman in her late 20s-early 30s was in critical but stable condition Thursday, after being flown to Reno last Monday with a case of hantavirus. Recent tests performed at the Nevada State Public Health Laboratory supported the diagnosis. It is expected the diagnosis will be confirmed shortly by the Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in Richmond.

An investigation into possible sources of the infection was being completed Thursday. This includes inspections of personal residence and worksites, and is being done with the full cooperation of the patient, family, and employer. A total of 13 deer mice were trapped at various locations, and testing results will be available in about a week.