Suspected case of hantavirus in Ontario County on Thursday – WHEC.com

Ontario County Public Health (OCPH) announced on May 14, 2026, that it is investigating a suspected case of locally-acquired hantavirus.

Public health officials stated that there is no risk to the general public and clarified that the investigation is not connected to the ongoing hantavirus infections reported on a cruise ship.

The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents, specifically through rodent droppings, saliva, and urine. Exposure often occurs during cleaning activities such as sweeping, vacuuming, washing, or cleaning in areas where rodents may have been present.

Prevention and Safety Guidelines

To reduce the risk of infection during spring cleaning, OCPH recommends that individuals use protective measures when cleaning sheds, cabins, and attics.

Recommended precautions include:

• Wearing masks and gloves.
• Utilizing other protective gear during the cleaning process.
• Washing hands and clothing thoroughly after completing the work.

Public Health Communication

The decision to issue a public statement regarding a suspected case is a departure from standard procedure for the department. Kate Ott, the public health director, explained that the announcement was made to mitigate public concern fueled by social media and reports of a separate hantavirus outbreak occurring on a cruise ship.

It is not the department’s usual practice to provide a press release in this scenario, but with the current cruise ship outbreak, the influence of social media, and perceived public anxiety, I feel it is prudent to address the current investigation and reassure the community

Kate Ott, public health director

The cruise ship outbreak involves the Andes virus, a specific strain of hantavirus known for its limited ability to transmit between humans, which differs from the typical rodent-to-human transmission seen in local cases.

Human infections of hantavirus are considered uncommon. According to health officials, only a few cases have been recorded since reporting for the virus became mandatory in 1995.