SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - State health officials say a 20-year-old woman from Rio Arriba County has died from the hantavirus.
The New Mexico Department of Health said Friday this is the first case of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome reported in the state this year.
Hantavirus develops from breathing in particles transmitted by rodent droppings, urine or saliva.
Early symptoms of hantavirus can include fever and muscle aches, chills, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and coughing.
Symptoms can show up within one to six weeks after exposure.
There is no specific treatment for hantavirus but chances for recovery are better with early medical attention.
Health officials say people should avoid contact with mice and other rodents.
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