Photo: Shutterstock Hantaviruses are a rare but dangerous family of viruses that can cause serious illness and even death in humans. Following the death of three passengers on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains what the deadly virus is.
Infection occurs primarily through contact with rodents, such as mice and rats, or exposure to their secretions, including urine, feces, and saliva. In rare cases, infection can also occur through a bite or scratch.
The virus is not transmitted from person to person, but poses a risk mainly in environments where rodents are present, such as homes, warehouses, or campsites.
There are two main medical conditions caused by the virus. The first is pulmonary syndrome, which affects the respiratory system and can lead to severe breathing difficulties and even death in about 38% of patients who develop respiratory symptoms. Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, and later a cough and shortness of breath may appear.
Photo: ShutterstockThe second condition is hemorrhagic fever that affects the kidneys, which manifests itself in severe headaches, abdominal and back pain, nausea, and sometimes a drop in blood pressure and internal bleeding. The severity of the disease varies depending on the type of virus, with the mortality rate in some cases ranging from 5% to 15%.
Early diagnosis can be difficult, as the initial symptoms are similar to the flu. Therefore, if you suspect rodent exposure and develop symptoms, you should seek medical attention.
There is currently no specific treatment for the virus, and treatment focuses on medical support according to symptoms. In severe cases, respiratory assistance or renal support may be required.
To reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to minimize contact with rodents, seal openings in the home, maintain cleanliness, and prevent available food sources that may attract them.