Hantavirus May Have Caused Woman's Death

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - Coconino County health officials believe the death of a Minnesota woman is linked to the hantavirus.

The victim, in her early 50's, was infected and died following a family boating trip on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon from mid- to late-May.

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Coconino County Health Department spokeswoman Trish Lees said the victim was hospitalized June 11 outside Arizona, diagnosed with hantavirus, and died June 12.

This is the first reported case of hantavirus in Arizona for the year, after one in the state last year.

Health officials said the hantavirus is an uncommon disease contracted by inhaling particles from mouse droppings and urine.