Hantavirus cases across Asia, Europe, and the Americas highlight the persistent threat of rodent-borne infections. The virus spreads when people inhale air contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, often in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Early signs may appear flu-like but can rapidly develop into severe respiratory distress in some cases. Strengthening rodent control, maintaining hygiene, and seeking prompt medical care remain key to preventing serious illness and fatalities.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is an illness caused by exposure to the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected wild rodents such as mice and rats. It belongs to a family of viruses capable of causing serious and sometimes fatal disease. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) are the main diseases caused by hantaviruses.
Hantaviruses found in the Western Hemisphere cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), while those found mostly in Europe and Asia cause Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
How is the infection spread
The virus present in the urine, saliva, and droppings of infected rodents can affect humans through:
- Touching the mouth or nose after contact with contaminated material
- A bite from an infected rodent
- Breathing in contaminated particles or dust
Areas with poor ventilation such as barns, old cabins, or storage sheds pose a higher risk.
It is important to note that most hantaviruses are not spread from person to person. However, rare human-to-human transmission has been documented with certain strains, such as the Andes virus in South America.
Symptoms of the disease
Symptoms usually appear one to eight weeks after exposure.
Early symptoms:
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Headaches and dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
Later symptom
- Dry cough and shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Fluid buildup in the lungs
The late stage of HPS can be life-threatening. It is estimated that approximately 30 to 40 percent of patients who develop HPS may not survive, making early medical attention critical.
HFRS, more common in Europe and Asia, primarily affects the kidneys and may cause bleeding disorders, low blood pressure, and acute kidney injury.
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Diagnosis and treatment
Early diagnosis can be challenging because initial symptoms resemble influenza or other viral infections. Blood tests are used to confirm infection.
There is no specific antiviral cure for HPS. Treatment is supportive and may include oxygen therapy, respiratory support, and intensive care. Early hospitalisation improves survival chances.
How to protect yourself
- Wet down contaminated areas with disinfectant or bleach before cleaning to prevent particles from becoming airborne
- Wear an N95 mask when cleaning droppings or nesting material
- Use gloves and protective clothing
- Open windows and doors to ventilate the space
- Wash hands thoroughly after potential exposure
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Simple measures such as maintaining clean surroundings, sealing rodent entry points, using protective equipment while cleaning enclosed spaces, and practicing proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce risk. Prevention remains the most effective defence against hantavirus infection.
