Why in News?
Hantavirus is recently in the news due to a deadly outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean, reported on May 3, 2026. The outbreak has resulted in three deaths and several other suspected cases, prompting an international investigation by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Disease Overview
- Definition: A family of viruses primarily spread by rodents (mice and rats) that can cause severe, often fatal respiratory or kidney diseases in humans.
- Transmission: Humans typically get infected by inhaling aerosolized particles from dried rodent urine, droppings, or saliva (e.g., during cleaning).
- Types of Illness:
- Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Common in the Americas; attacks the lungs and has a fatality rate of ~38%.
- Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS): Common in Europe and Asia; primarily affects the kidneys.
- Human-to-Human Spread: Generally, not contagious between people, with the rare exception of the Andes virus strain in South America.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Early Phase (1–8 weeks after exposure): Fever, fatigue, and severe muscle aches in large muscle groups (thighs, hips, back).
- Late Phase (4–10 days after early symptoms): Sudden onset of shortness of breath and coughing as lungs fill with fluid.
- Other Signs: Headaches, dizziness, chills, and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or abdominal pain.
Prevention & Treatment
- No Cure or Vaccine: There is currently no specific treatment, vaccine, or FDA-approved antiviral for hantavirus; medical care is entirely supportive (oxygen, ventilation, or dialysis).
- Safe Cleaning: Do not sweep or vacuum rodent-infested areas, as this stirs the virus into the air. Instead, use a bleach-and-water solution to soak the area before cleaning.
- Rodent Control: Seal holes in your home, use traps, and keep food in tightly sealed containers to prevent infestations.
- Ventilation: Air out cabins, sheds, or attics for at least 30 minutes before entering or cleaning them.
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