Good link, Steve. Here's a bit more info:
Sin Nombre virus (SNV) (Bunyaviridae) is a newly discovered hantavirus responsible for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in humans. The deer mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus, is its primary reservoir. At least some woodrats (Neotoma lepida) can also cause HPS. These rodents shed the virus in their saliva and urine. Transmission to people occurs when:
1. When people sweep or otherwise clean areas were rodent urine and saliva are present small droplets are “aerosolized” and inhaled.
2. When bitten by a rodent and contaminate saliva enters the wound.
3. Items contaminated with rodent urine or saliva are handled and then hands touch the nose or mouth prior to washing hands.
4. Food contaminated by urine, dropping or saliva from rodents.
Northern Kentucky Independent District Health Department reports no known cases of HPS reported in KY. Two confirmed cases of HPS have been reported in Indiana.
Bottom line, climbers. Keep yer grubby, chalk-crusted mitts outta our middens! If y'all have climbed in the Red, ya caint help but notice our nests (middens) under dry overhangs. We make a pile about two ta three feet high of sticks, twigs, and dried Rhododendron seed pods.
Oh, and J-Rock... I licked those maple goodies of yers t'other night. Are ya feelin' a bit green behind the gills, boy?
Rizzo