SAN DIEGO - A wild mouse trapped in the Tijuana River Valley by county health officials has tested positive for hantavirus, a disease that can spread to humans and is potentially fatal, it was announced today.

Hantavirus is carried by wild rodents, primarily deer mice, and is left in droppings and urine that can be inhaled by humans, according to the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health.

The airborne virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, which has symptoms similar to the flu, but in rare cases it can lead to severe breathing difficulties and even death, according to the DEH.

County health officials cautioned the public to avoid exposure to the virus, especially in the wake of the recent wildfires, which could push rodents into more populated areas.

"While this mouse was not found in a fire area, now is a good time to use caution," said Gary Erbeck, director of the DEH.

"Due to the recent fires, rodents are looking for food and shelter in people's homes," he said. "When cleaning up around your home, do not stir up dust or materials that may be contaminated with rodent droppings and urine."

For cleaning rodent droppings, county officials recommend ventilating the affected area for 30 minutes, spraying the area with a 10 percent bleach solution, and then cleaning up with a sponge or mop. The waste should be placed in two plastic bags, sealed and discarded.