Coconino County Reports First Hantavirus Case Since 2016
Coconino County, located in Arizona, has recently reported its first case of the hantavirus since 2016. The county revealed that three human cases of the virus, transmitted through rodents, have been recorded in the past 15 months, with two resulting in fatalities. On a wider scale, Arizona has reported a total of seven cases and three fatalities due to the hantavirus in the last six months.
The hantavirus is contracted by humans through airborne transmission of viral droplets spread by handling materials contaminated with rodent urine, feces, or saliva. The virus does not spread between humans, as clarified by county officials. Common symptoms of a hantavirus infection include fever, headache, and breathing difficulties.
It is important to note that the hantavirus can be present in various areas throughout the southwestern region of the United States. To prevent the spread of the virus, Coconino County advises residents to rodent-proof their homes and properly disinfect areas contaminated by rodent droppings. More information about the hantavirus can be found here.
Exploring the Valley in Arizona
Locals commonly refer to the Phoenix Metropolitan Area as “The Valley,” which is the largest metropolitan area in the Southwest. It comprises major cities like Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and others. The combined population of these cities is approximately 4,845,832 people, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, making it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the country.
Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, is the 4th largest county in the United States by population, with 4,485,414 people based on the 2020 Census. It encompasses around 63% of Arizona’s population and spans an area of 9,224 square miles, making it larger than several U.S. states.
One of the standout features of Maricopa County is its expansive park system, featuring an estimated 120,000 acres of open space parks with miles of trails, nature centers, and campgrounds. Phoenix, the county seat and state capital, is the 5th most populous city in the U.S. Maricopa County was named after the Maricopa Native American Tribe, also known as the Piipaash.
