Rodent-spread and potentially deadly, hantavirus is a growing threat as the province heads into warmer months, warns Alberta Health Services.

Hantavirus is a potentially fatal airborne illness spread by rodents -- most commonly deer mice -- that affects the lungs and respiratory system.

Dr. Christopher Sikora, Edmonton zone medical officer of health, said the virus is most common following the winter months when large furniture and cabins are being re-opened.

"The way people are exposed is through contact with urine or feces of infected rodents," he said.

Sikora said symptoms typically resemble a severe flu, including fever and chills.

Infected individuals typically start showing symptoms two weeks following exposure -- but it could also take up to five weeks.

Sikora said there have been a sporadic number of cases on an annual basis in Alberta. Only one known case has been recorded so far in 2017 and a total of 12 since 2014.

He said there are three main steps to take for prevention against hantavirus. Sealing up as many places as possible to protect against rodent infestation in any shelter is key. If you already have a rodent problem, trapping them quickly is essential to prevent further risk. Finally, cleaning up any droppings must be done carefully in steps.

The following precautions to clean up rodent droppings have been laid out by AHS:

Open doors and windows for ventilation, and keep out of the area for at least 30 minutes prior to starting cleanup.

Wearing rubber gloves, thoroughly soak droppings, nests and dead mice with a bleach/water solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) or a household disinfectant.

Let the bleach/water solution sit for five minutes.

Never disturb droppings, nests or dead mice prior to soaking with this bleach solution.

Mop up bleach-soaked droppings, nest and/or dead mice, or pick up with paper towels, and place them in a plastic bag.

Seal the bag and put in a garbage container with a tight-fitting lid.

Wash your gloves before removing and then wash your hands.

Never vacuum or sweep droppings, nests or dead mice. This can create dust that can be inhaled. The dust may contain hantavirus.

If dealing with significant mouse infestations or with mouse infestations in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, contact Health Link (811) to discuss necessary precautions.

ducook@postmedia.com