Hanta virus cannot be cured, but early medical services can improve survival. Image of representation. |Photo source: Reuters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hantavirus is a family of viruses that can cause severe, potentially deadly diseases. These viruses lead to life-threatening diseases, including hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), severe respiratory illnesses and hemorrhagic fever in renal syndrome (HFRS), a disease characterized by internal bleeding and renal failure.
The recent death of Betsy Hackman, the wife of famous American actor Gene Hackman, has attracted attention to the deadly virus. Although cases are rare, the severity of the disease makes its spread, symptoms and treatment options crucial.
How does hantavirus occur?
Hantavirus is a series of viruses carried by certain rodents, such as deer mice, white-footed mice, rice rats and cotton rats. According to the CDC, humans usually contract hantavirus by contacting infected rodents, feces and saliva. The most common way of virus transmission is through atomization, when fresh rodent waste is disturbed, the viral particles become airborne and can be inhaled. This usually occurs in activities such as sweeping areas, cleaning sheds (such as sheds or handling contaminated materials).
Additionally, if a person deals with contaminated material or viruses entering open wounds, hantavirus can enter the body. Although extremely rare, the virus can also be transmitted through rodent bites. They usually don’t spread from person to person, although certain strains, such as Andes virus, are reported, but rare cases of human-to-human transmission.
What are the signs and symptoms?
According to the World Health Organization manual, hantavirus is a family of viruses with severity of multiple strains. Infection is usually divided into two stages. One to eight weeks after exposure, the first phase is called the “precursor phase.” It starts with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches (usually in the thighs, hips, and back), fatigue, headaches and abdominal pain. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can also occur.
The second phase marks the onset of HPS, bringing more serious symptoms. These include sudden shortness of breath, coughing and tight chests and a filling of fluid in the lungs. This stage can escalate rapidly, leading to acute respiratory distress and, in some cases, heart failure. Without timely medical intervention, the situation can be fatal.
Who is in danger?
People at higher risk for hantavirus include those who live or work in areas where the rodent population is more prominent. This includes farmers, construction workers, and people involved in cleaning old or unused spaces. Campers and hikers who come into contact with rodent nests or feces are also vulnerable. Even homeowners dealing with rodent infestations need to be cautious, as daily cleaning tasks can unknowingly stir contaminated particles. The CDC also stressed that five pregnant women and people with weak immune systems should avoid handling pet rodents because they are at a higher risk of having serious illness and therefore should avoid handling pet rodents.
What are treatment options?
Currently, even if there is no specific antiviral treatment or treatment to cure Hanta virus, medical care is focused on managing symptoms and supporting patients through the most dangerous stages of the disease. In the case of HPS, oxygen therapy is usually received to relieve breathing difficulties. Severe cases may require intensive care, including mechanical ventilation to help with lung function.
Since there is no direct drug, early detection is crucial. Those who experience flu-like symptoms after potential rodent exposure should seek medical care immediately, as rapid interventions, such as oxygen support, can prevent severe respiratory distress progression.
Prevention remains the most effective way to fight hantavirus. By sealing the entry points, safely disposing of food and garbage, keeping the house and workplace free of rodents while cleaning the rodent-moving cleaning area can greatly reduce risks.
publishing – March 9, 2025 at 09:28 pm
