Two wild mice trapped in Pine Valley have tested positive for Hantavirus. San Diego County Vector Control reports the mice were caught in the wild during routine checks of the area.

Hantavirus is carried in the droppings and urine of wild rodents, primarily deer mice. Once it becomes airborne, it can be inhaled by humans, and lead to a rare but fatal illness called Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, or HPS.

Symptoms are similar to the flu: fatigue, fever, muscle aches, dizziness, chills, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Later symptoms of HPS include coughing and shortness of breath.

The Department of Environmental Health says it is important to use the "wet method" to clean up rodent droppings and urine:

~Ventilate affected areas by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.
~Use rubber gloves. Spray a 10% bleach solution onto dead rodents and their droppings. Let it stand for 15 minutes.
~Clean with sponge or mop.
~Place waste into two plastic bags, seal them and throw them away.
~Wash gloves in a bleach solution, then soap and water. Dispose of them in a double bag.
~Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.
~Do not sweep or vacuum droppings.

For more information, call Vector Control at (858) 694-2888 or click here to visit them online.