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The Eastern Sierra Nevada region of California — an iconic segment of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) — is now at the center of a serious public health alert. Mono County authorities have confirmed an unprecedented cluster of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) cases in Mammoth Lakes, including three fatalities reported early this year. This development underscores the importance for hikers to stay informed about potential risks and adopt appropriate safety measures.
Mammoth Lakes: A Crucial Resupply Hub
Mammoth Lakes plays an important role for many backpackers traversing the PCT and the John Muir Trail. As a primary resupply and rest stop, its convenience means that many hikers inevitably come into contact with the local environment. Given the current health concerns, those visiting the area need to be particularly vigilant.
Hantavirus: What Hikers Need to Know
Hantaviruses, particularly the Sin Nombre virus found in North America, are carried by deer mice and can lead to HPS — a severe, often fatal respiratory illness and the same condition that killed Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, in February. Transmission occurs when individuals inhale airborne particles contaminated by the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents.
Unlike many viral infections, hantavirus is not spread from person to person. However, the risk is significant where rodent populations are present, especially in shelters, campsites, and less-frequented buildings along the trail.
The trail near Mammoth. Photo: Eva
Unseasonable Concerns
Typically, hantavirus cases in California peak during late spring and summer, corresponding with increased outdoor activity and rodent fluctuations. The recent cluster in February and early April 2025 is unprecedented, suggesting an atypically high deer mouse presence in the Mammoth Lakes area.
Dr. Tom Boo, Mono County’s Public Health Officer, described the situation as “tragic and alarming,” emphasizing that even early-season hikers should exercise extra caution. Prior to this year, the latest hantavirus cases in Mono County were reported in 2019, making this spike particularly concerning.
Recognizing the Symptoms
HPS symptoms can emerge between one and eight weeks following exposure, though most cases appear within two to four weeks. Early signs resemble the flu — fever, severe muscle aches, headache, nausea, and fatigue — progressing rapidly to respiratory distress marked by shortness of breath and fluid accumulation in the lungs. With a mortality rate of roughly 30%, immediate medical attention is critical for anyone experiencing these symptoms after potential exposure to rodent-infested areas.
The disease is often spread through deer mice. Gregory “Slobirdr” Smith, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Preventive Measures for Hikers
To lower the risk of hantavirus exposure, hikers are advised to:
1) Store Food Properly: Use rodent-proof containers and bear-resistant canisters; clean up spills immediately and manage trash according to Leave No Trace principles.
2) Avoid Disturbing Rodent Habitats: Stay clear of areas with visible droppings or nests, and always wash hands thoroughly after handling potentially contaminated materials.
3) Ventilate Shelters: Open trail shelters or infrequently used buildings for at least 30 minutes to an hour before settling in, and inspect for signs of rodent activity.
4) Practice Good Hygiene: Frequent hand washing with soap and water (or hand sanitizer when necessary) is essential, especially before meals or after exposure to environments with a risk of contamination.
A Call for Caution
While the overall risk of contracting hantavirus remains low, the unexpected cluster of cases signals that vigilance is imperative. Hikers planning to explore the Mammoth Lakes area should closely monitor their health and quickly seek medical care if symptoms develop. In light of these recent cases, local health officials and advocacy groups continue to urge the hiking community to take warnings seriously.
Featured image: Centers for Disease Control
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