Desert Diseases

• “Valley Fever” is a respiratory disease that is dust-borne, and found mainly in the southern basin and range deserts. There are large valleys between the mountain ranges where the dust gathers and blows. Treatment: not life threatening. Many cases are mild and are never even diagnosed as Valley Fever.
• “Hantavirus” is a flu-like disease that is carried by a particular species of deer mouse found on the Colorado Plateus and in its caves and canyons. It’s a deadly disease for about 50% of those who contract it! However, it may incubate for as long as 2 weeks before symptoms appear. The person thinks they have the flu, and they don’t see a doctor. Then they’re usually dead within 24 hours! Most of those (50%) lives saved were because the person went to the doctor and it was recognized as Hantavirus. Always be aware of your health condition for at least 2 weeks after visiting Canyon Country. See a doctor IMMEDIATELY if any flu-like symptoms develop, and be sure to tell your doctor you visited Canyon Country (or the “Four Corners” area)!   In 1998, Hantavirus was discovered in the Grand Canyon. This disease can only be contracted if the feces of the mouse become airborne and are breathed in by the victim. Therefore, stay out of caves and other enclosed spaces in Canyon Country, especially if you see ANY kind of rodent feces in the area.

Previous Page · Next Page