Rodent-borne transmission:
- Hantaviruses are primarily spread through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
Two main syndromes:
- Hantaviruses can cause two severe illnesses: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which affects the lungs, and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), which affects the kidneys.
Severe symptoms:
- Initial symptoms often resemble the flu, including fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. HPS can progress to severe breathing difficulties, while HFRS can lead to kidney failure.
No specific cure:
- There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus infection. Medical care focuses on supportive measures, such as oxygen therapy and, in severe cases, mechanical ventilation or dialysis.
Prevention is key:
- Preventing hantavirus infection involves minimizing contact with rodents. This includes proper sanitation, sealing entry points in buildings, and taking precautions when cleaning areas that may be contaminated with rodent droppings.