Hantavirus Infection Rates

Recent letters and articles have incorrectly stated that 70% of the deer mice on the Channel Islands have hantavirus.

In fact, according to the California Department of Health Services, 20.9% of the deer mice tested on the islands have tested positive for the antibodies to the disease. Anacapa and Santa Barbara islands had no mice test positive for antibodies of the disease. The statewide prevalence is 11.8%, with mice testing positive in 62% of the counties tested.

The presence of antibodies does not necessarily mean the animal is infectious, as the antibodies can be transmitted genetically, and even through mother’s milk. In reality, there is no research showing the actual percentage of potentially infectious mice.

Certainly, caution and proper protective measures are prudent, but we should understand the risk based on the facts, not on misinformation. Detailed information on the hantavirus study can be obtained in a publication from Emerging Infectious Diseases, Vol. 3 (April-June 1997), which can be obtained from the Department of Health Services office in Ventura.

DAVID BEGUN

Westlake Village