All you need to know about: Hantavirus

Hantavirus has no specific cure, but early medical care can improve survival rates. Image for representation.
| Photo Credit: Reuters

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause severe, potentially fatal illnesses. These viruses lead to life-threatening diseases, including hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a severe respiratory illness, and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), a condition characterised by internal bleeding and kidney failure.

The recent passing of Betsy Hackman, wife of renowned American actor Gene Hackman, has drawn attention to this deadly virus. Although cases are rare, the severity of the illness makes understanding its spread, symptoms, and treatment options crucial.

How does hantavirus occur?

Hantaviruses are a family of viruses carried by certain rodents, such as deer mice, white-footed mice, rice rats, and cotton rats. According to the CDC, humans typically contract hantavirus through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, and saliva. The most common way the virus spreads is through aerosolisation, when fresh rodent waste is disturbed, the virus particles become airborne and can be inhaled. This often happens during activities like sweeping infested areas, cleaning long-closed spaces such as sheds, or handling contaminated materials.

Additionally, hantavirus can enter the body if a person touches their eyes, nose, or mouth after handling contaminated materials or if the virus enters an open wound. Though extremely rare, the virus can also spread through rodent bites.  They do not typically transmit from person to person, although rare cases of human-to-human transmission have been reported with certain strains, such as the Andes virus.

What are the signs and symptoms ?

According to the World Health Organisation’s manual, hantaviruses are a family of viruses with several strains exhibiting varying degrees of severity. The infection typically progresses in two stages. The first phase, known as the “prodromal phase,” appears one to eight weeks after exposure. It begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches (often in the thighs, hips, and back), fatigue, headaches, and abdominal pain. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur.

The second phase, which signals the onset of HPS, brings more severe symptoms. These include a sudden shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness as the lungs fill with fluid. This stage can escalate quickly, causing acute respiratory distress and, in some cases, heart failure. Without prompt medical intervention, the condition can be fatal.

Who is at risk?

Those at higher risk of contracting hantavirus include people who live or work in areas where rodent populations are more prominent. This includes farmers, construction workers, and those involved in cleaning old or unused spaces. Campers and hikers who come into contact with rodent nests or droppings are also vulnerable. Even homeowners dealing with rodent infestations need to be cautious, as everyday cleaning tasks can unknowingly stir up contaminated particles. The CDC also emphasis that children under five, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid handling pet rodents, as they have a higher risk of serious illness.  

What are the treatment options?

Currently, even though there is no specific antiviral treatment or cure for hantavirus, medical care focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the patient through the most dangerous phases of the illness. In cases of HPS, patients are often given oxygen therapy to ease breathing difficulties. Severe cases may require intensive care, including mechanical ventilation to assist lung function.

Since no direct medication exists, early detection is vital. Those who experience flu-like symptoms after potential rodent exposure should seek medical attention immediately, as quick intervention, such as oxygen support, can prevent the progression of severe respiratory distress.

Prevention remains the most effective way to combat hantavirus. Keeping homes and workplaces rodent-free by sealing entry points, safely disposing of food and garbage, and wearing protective gear when cleaning areas with rodent activity can significantly reduce the risk.