FAIRPLAY, Colo.—One of the four people killed by hantavirus in Colorado this year was a University of Colorado student who wanted to become an astronaut, his family confirmed Monday.
Jason Dinges, 20, died July 15, said his mother, Vicky Dinges. “It was the worst nightmare any parent can imagine,” she said. He was home with his parents in Park County for the summer.
He had two years left in CU’s aerospace engineering program, his mother said.
The four hantavirus deaths in Colorado this year tie the record set in 1993, state health officials have said. The victims were in Custer, Costilla and Park counties and in Alamosa.
It may never be determined how Jason Dinges became infected.
The disease is carried by deer mice. People can become infected by inhaling dirt or dust that has mixed with deer mice urine and feces.
“People need to be aware how dangerous it is, especially if they’re cleaning up places like garages and barns,” Vicky Dinges said.
Jason Dinges, who enjoyed hiking, skateboarding, snowboarding, raquetball and other activities, had suffered flulike symptoms and a fever before he died, his mother said.
“People up here had the flu, and that’s exactly what you think,” Vicky Dinges said. “Don’t take anything for granted. Look after your children, love them and tell them everyday you love them.”
