As farmers start dusting off their machinery in preparation for seeding, cabin owners open up their summer vacation home for the season or you are just getting into your shed in readiness for gardening, the Saskatchewan Health Authority is reminding the public to take precautions against hantavirus.

The virus is caused by breathing in contaminated particles from the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected deer mice. Although rare, a potentially fatal lung disease known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome can come from these particles.

The SHA says when cleaning rodent-infested areas, avoid activities that raise dust and prevent direct contact and breathing in air particles that may be contaminated.

Some symptoms of the virus include fever, muscle aches, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting, which usually start within one to six weeks of exposure.