Study: Sin Nombre hantavirus may be more widespread among PNW rodents | kgw.com
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Idaho, United StatesConfidence 90%Today
A new study by Washington State University researchers found that nearly 30% of rodents tested in Washington and Idaho showed evidence of Sin Nombre hantavirus infection, suggesting it is more widespread in Pacific Northwest rodents.
Species mentioned
- rodents
- deer mice
- voles
- chipmunks
Source articles
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- PrimaryStudy: Sin Nombre hantavirus may be more widespread among PNW rodents | kgw.com
vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com · 2026-06-01
A study published on May 24, 2026, by Washington State University researchers found that nearly 30% of rodents tested in Washington and Idaho showed evidence of past or active infection with the Sin Nombre hantavirus. This suggests the virus may be more widespread among Pacific Northwest rodents than previously thought. The study focused on deer mice, voles, and chipmunks in farms and natural areas.
- ReferenceStudy finds widespread hantavirus exposure among Pacific Northwest rodent populations
news-medical.net · 2026-05-22
A recent study in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho found that nearly 30% of rodents showed evidence of past Sin Nombre virus infection, with about 10% actively infected. This suggests the virus, which causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, may be more widespread in Pacific Northwest rodent populations than previously recognized. Fieldwork for the study was conducted in Whitman County, Washington, and Latah and Benewah counties in Idaho. Human infections remain rare, but the study highlights the importance of awareness.
Reminder
This report is an aggregated summary of public information for surveillance and awareness purposes only. It is not medical advice. For symptoms, exposure, or clinical decisions, contact a qualified clinician or your local public-health authority.