What Is Hantavirus? Photo shows a woman in a lab pipetting fluid into vials.
Hantavirus is a rare but dangerous virus which is usually spread by rodents such as mice, rats and voles. It spreads in their urine, droppings and saliva. The main way that humans catch the disease is by breathing in contaminated dust. If you are wondering 'What Is Hantavirus', read on to find out about what types of illness it causes. There are two main types of illness caused by Hantavirus.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). This is found in the Americas and attacks the lungs. Early signs of the disease are;
Tiredness
Fever
Muscle aches
Later signs include;
Severe breathing difficulty. This happens because the lungs fill with liquid.
Coughing
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS). This type is usually found in Europe and Asia. This affects the kidneys and blood vessels. Signs and symptoms of this include;
High temperatures
Increased bleeding
Kidney failure.
How Is Hantavirus Spread?
Most types can't spread from human to human but the South American Andes virus is a rare exception which can. Despite this, human-to-human spread is unusual.
How To Avoid Catching Hantavirus
The best way to avoid catching Hantavirus is to avoid contact with rodents and any areas they have been. For more information check our article here: https://www.hammertechltd.com/blog/how-long-can-rat-droppings-remain-infectious
If you are cleaning places where rodents live make sure you wear gloves, a mask and eye protection.
Clean with hot soapy water and disinfectant and wash yourself thoroughly afterwards.
Don't sweep or vacuum dried droppings or dust as this will pump it into the air and you will breathe it in.
Wet the area with bleach or disinfectant to prevent dust.
Check government websites for advice.
What Treatment is There For Hantavirus?
There is no specific treatment for Hantavirus. If you are unwell with it then doctors will concentrate on helping you breathe if this is a problem. You might need medicines to help your heart pump well and water as a drip.
For further guidance, consult the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Check region-specific advice via the UK Health Security Agency.
This article is intended for general information. It should not be used as medical advice. Contact a healthcare professional if you have concerns about Hantavirus or your health.
Written by Dr Toby Bateson for Hammer Technologies Limited,
GMC 6025675