Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome in California
The California Department of Public Health has reported six confirmed cases of Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS) in visitors who stayed in Yosemite National Park from early June to mid-July 2012. Clinicians are asked to educate patients that HCPS is a rare disease that is prevented by avoiding contact with rodents and excreta. Clinicians may consider testing for HCPS in patients with fever, severe pulmonary disease and a history of contact with rodents in rural areas. Suspected HCPS cases should be reported to Alameda County Public Health Department at 510-267-3250.