HPSLast updated 2025-12-01
Hantavirus in United States
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) was first described in the US during the 1993 Four Corners outbreak. Sin Nombre virus is the dominant strain, carried by deer mice. CDC has documented over 800 cumulative cases since national surveillance began, with case-fatality rates around 35%.
Cumulative Cases
850
Deaths
300
CFR
35.3%
Global Rank
#10
by case count
Circulating Strains
- ●Sin Nombre virus
- ●New York virus
- ●Bayou virus
Primary syndrome: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS).
Reservoir Species
- • Deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)
Most Affected Regions
- • Four Corners (Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah)
- • California
- • Washington
- • Pacific Northwest
Country-specific Risk & Prevention
Cabins, sheds, and rural homes in the Western US are highest-risk environments. Ventilate enclosed spaces for 30 minutes before entering and wet-clean droppings with a 1:10 bleach solution rather than sweeping.
General prevention: see symptoms and prevention guidance →
Field Notes
Primarily Sin Nombre virus in the Southwest. Cases reported since 1993.