Hantavirus: History, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially deadly virus that can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS). It is primarily transmitted to humans from rodents, especially through their urine, droppings, and saliva. Over the years, several outbreaks have been reported worldwide, making awareness and prevention vital.
This detailed guide covers the history, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Hantavirus, along with frequently asked questions to help you understand and safeguard yourself against this dangerous pathogen.
1. History of Hantavirus
The history of Hantavirus dates back to the Korean War in the early 1950s, when more than 3,000 United Nations soldiers were infected with a mysterious illness causing fever, kidney failure, and bleeding disorders. The condition was later identified as Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
However, the virus itself was first isolated in 1976 by Dr. Ho-Wang Lee from the lungs of a striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius), near the Hantaan River in South Korea — hence the name “Hantavirus.”
Key historical events:
1951–1953: Korean War outbreak (HFRS in soldiers)
1976: Virus isolation by Dr. Lee
1993: First major outbreak of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in the Four Corners region of the United States
2000s–Present: Sporadic outbreaks across Asia, Europe, and the Americas
Hantavirus is now recognized as a global health concern, particularly in rural areas with high rodent populations.
2. Causes of Hantavirus Infection
Hantavirus belongs to the Bunyaviridae family and is zoonotic, meaning it spreads from animals to humans.
Primary cause: Rodent-to-Human Transmission
• Reservoir hosts: Deer mice, white-footed mice, cotton rats, and rice rats (in the Americas), and striped field mice (in Asia and Europe).
• Virus shedding: Infected rodents carry the virus without getting sick and excrete it in their urine, droppings, and saliva.
• Airborne transmission: The virus becomes airborne when contaminated dust is stirred up.
Modes of Human Infection
1. Inhalation of airborne particles from rodent waste
2. Direct contact with rodent urine, droppings, or nesting material
3. Bites from infected rodents (rare)
4. Contaminated food consumption
Note: Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, except in certain strains like the Andes virus in South America.
3. Signs and Symptoms of Hantavirus Infection
The symptoms vary depending on the type of disease — HFRS or HPS.
3.1 Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
HPS has two phases:
Early symptoms (1–5 weeks after exposure):
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches (especially in the thighs, hips, back, and shoulders)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Late symptoms (4–10 days after early phase):
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
3.2 Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
HFRS also progresses in phases:
Febrile phase:
• Sudden fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Back and abdominal pain
Hypotensive phase:
• Low blood pressure
• Shock
Oliguric phase:
• Reduced urine output
• Kidney damage
Diuretic phase:
• Increased urine output
Convalescent phase:
• Gradual recovery
4. Diagnosis of Hantavirus Infection
Since early symptoms mimic flu or COVID-19, laboratory tests are essential.
Diagnostic Methods
1. Serological tests — Detect antibodies (IgM and IgG) against Hantavirus
2. RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) — Identifies viral genetic material
3. ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) — Commonly used for confirmation
4. Chest X-ray — To detect lung fluid accumulation (HPS cases)
5. Kidney function tests — For HFRS cases
Early detection is crucial, as Hantavirus infections can progress rapidly to life-threatening stages.
5. Prevention of Hantavirus Infection
Currently, no vaccine is approved for Hantavirus in most countries, making prevention essential.
5.1 Rodent Control
• Seal holes and gaps in homes, sheds, and food storage areas
• Use traps and rodent repellents
• Keep garbage sealed and dispose of it regularly
5.2 Safe Cleaning Practices
• Wear gloves and masks when cleaning rodent-infested areas
• Spray disinfectant before sweeping to prevent dust inhalation
• Avoid vacuuming dry rodent droppings
5.3 Personal Safety Measures
• Avoid sleeping directly on the ground outdoors in rodent-infested areas
• Store food in rodent-proof containers
• Wash hands after handling outdoor equipment
6. Treatment of Hantavirus Infection
There is no specific antiviral treatment for Hantavirus. Management focuses on supportive care to reduce complications.
For HPS
Hospitalization — Immediate care in an intensive care unit (ICU)
Oxygen therapy — To manage respiratory distress
Mechanical ventilation — In severe cases
Fluid management — To prevent shock
For HFRS
Fluid and electrolyte balance — Essential to prevent dehydration or overload
Dialysis — For severe kidney damage
Medications — Pain relievers, fever reducers, and in some cases, Ribavirin (antiviral) may be effective if given early
Prognosis: With early medical intervention, survival rates improve significantly, but HPS mortality rates remain around 38%.
7. Global Impact and Recent Outbreaks
Hantavirus infections are reported worldwide, particularly in:
• Asia: China, South Korea, Russia
• Europe: Finland, Sweden, Germany
• Americas: USA, Canada, Argentina, Chile
1. Recent notable events:
• 2020: Media attention in China after a man tested positive for Hantavirus during COVID-19 pandemic panic
• Seasonal spikes in rural farming areas due to rodent population surges
8. Conclusion
Hantavirus is a rare but severe zoonotic infection that requires urgent medical attention once symptoms appear. Understanding its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures is key to reducing risk. While there’s no vaccine yet, rodent control and safe hygiene practices remain the best defenses.
9. FAQs about Hantavirus
Q1. Is Hantavirus contagious between humans?
Most strains are not transmitted from person to person. The Andes virus in South America is an exception.
Q2. How quickly do Hantavirus symptoms appear?
Usually 1–5 weeks after exposure.
Q3. Can pets spread Hantavirus?
Dogs and cats can bring infected rodents into contact with humans but are not direct carriers.
Q4. Is there a vaccine for Hantavirus?
China and South Korea have developed vaccines for HFRS, but they are not widely available globally.
Q5. What is the survival rate for Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome?
Approximately 62% survival rate with early intensive care.
Q6. How can I clean rodent droppings safely?
Spray disinfectant first, wear gloves and a mask, and avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)