Rapid Fire
Hantavirus
- 12 Mar 2025
- 1 min read
Hantavirus is a rare but severe virus that spreads through the urine, droppings, and saliva of rodents (mammals of the order Rodentia, such as rats), causing life-threatening illnesses like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
- Transmission: Spread primarily through aerosolization of rodent waste, direct contact, or rarely through bites. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare.
- Symptoms:
- Prodromal Phase (1-8 weeks after exposure): Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea).
- Severe Phase (HPS onset): Shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, fluid buildup in the lungs, and potential heart failure.
- High-Risk Groups: Farmers, construction workers, hikers, campers, and those handling rodent-infested areas.
- Children under five, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid contact with pet rodents.
- Treatment: No specific antiviral treatment, management includes oxygen therapy and intensive care for severe cases.
- Prevention: Keeping homes and workplaces rodent-free by sealing entry points, and wear protective gear when cleaning areas with rodent activity can significantly reduce the risk.
| Read more: HMPV Virus |
