Cause and transmission
Hantavirus spreads when infected rodents shed virus in their waste. Humans inhale dust particles contaminated with rodent excretions, often when cleaning attics or abandoned areas. Rarely, strains like the Andes virus may transmit between humans, but this is unusual.
Where and when it was first identified
The virus was first recognized during the Korean War (1950–1953) as “Korean hemorrhagic fever,” linked to the Hantaan virus in South Korea. In 1993, a deadly lung disease in the Four Corners region of the U.S. led to the discovery of the Sin Nombre virus, causing HPS.
What are the symptoms?
Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. HPS progresses to severe coughing and breathing difficulty, while HFRS leads to kidney issues and internal bleeding.
How is hantavirus treated?
There is no specific antiviral cure. Treatments are supportive: oxygen for lung issues, fluid management, and dialysis if kidneys fail. Ribavirin may help in some HFRS cases but is not universally reliable. Vaccines are experimental, so prevention is key.
How can you prevent hantavirus?
Avoid contact with rodents, rodent droppings, and dusty environments. Seal homes, clean carefully using protective gear, and control rodent populations.
What is the latest outbreak news?
In 2026, an outbreak linked to Andes virus on a cruise ship shows hantavirus can still cause clusters, though community spread is rare. Awareness, early recognition, and preventive measures remain vital to public health.
