Ontario County health officials are investigating a suspected case of hantavirus in Hopewell.
Public health says the case appears to be locally acquired, but there’s no connection to the cruise ship outbreak making headlines, and no risk to the general public.
Hantavirus infections are rare in New York, with only a handful reported since the mid-1990s.
The virus spreads through contact with rodent droppings, especially when dust is stirred up during cleaning.
Health officials say this is a good reminder to use masks and gloves when cleaning sheds, attics, or cabins, and to wash up afterward.