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CDC investigates Seoul virus outbreak among rat breeders in Illinois, Wisconsin
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The CDC announced today that it is assisting state health officials in Illinois and Wisconsin to investigate cases of Seoul virus infection among eight people who worked at rat-breeding facilities in the two states. It is the first outbreak of the virus associated with pet rats in the United States, according to the agency.
After a “home-based rodent breeder” in Wisconsin was hospitalized in December with symptoms that included fever and headache, the CDC tested blood specimens and confirmed that patient was infected by the Seoul virus, a member of the Hantavirus family of rodent-borne viruses. A close family member who also worked with rodents tested positive for the virus. Both patients have recovered, according to the CDC. The investigation revealed an additional six cases among rat breeders who supplied the rodents to the two original patients.
Although Seoul virus is carried by Norway rats worldwide, cases are usually reported in Asia. According to the CDC, people become infected after coming into contact with body fluids such as blood, saliva and urine from infected rats or are bitten by them. There is no person-to-person transmission of Seoul virus, and it cannot be transmitted to or from other types of pet rats, the agency noted. Symptoms include:
- fever;
- headache;
- chills;
- back and abdominal pain;
- blurred vision;
- redness of the eyes; and
- rash.
In rare cases, Seoul virus can cause acute renal disease. However, not everyone experiences symptoms, according to the agency.
Investigators are looking into whether any customers who purchased affected rats have become ill.
State and federal health officials are encouraging anyone who recently purchased a rat in the affected areas and are experiencing Seoul virus symptoms to contact their health care provider immediately.