Hantavirus

Hantavirus

Hantavirus is a viral disease spread by rodents. The Hantavirus was originally discovered in Asia, during the Korean War. The first recognized outbreak of HPS was noted in 1993 in the "Four Corners" area of the U.S. where the states of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah meet. Its symptoms are similar to influenza. Some early symptoms may be fever, chills, fatigue and muscle aches. An infected person can quickly get worst, and start experiencing worst symptoms like: dry cough, general ill feeling, headache, nausea and vomiting, and shortness of breath. The virus is found in their urine and feces, but it does not make the animal sick. You can get the virus by being bite by the rodent or touching rodent urine, saliva, or droppings. Also by eating food contaminated by infected deer mouse saliva, this virus is rarely spread from person to person Infection with Hantavirus can progress to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which can be fatal.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a disease in which in the late stage of infection with a Hantavirus subtype, patients experience lung congestion, fluid accumulation in the lungs, and shortness of breath. Death occurs in about 38% of patients. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is caused by Hantaviruses that cause lung capillaries to leak fluid into the lung tissue. In western North America, deer mice are the primary carriers of the particular strain of Hantavirus that causes respiratory illness in people. Human cases have occurred in prairie, parkland and forested areas, but the most recent cases have been found in northwest and west central areas. There is no specific treatment for HPS, cure, or vaccine for Hantavirus infection. Complications of Hantavirus may include kidney failure and heart and lung failure. But early diagnosis and treatment in an intensive care unit may improve a person's chances of recovery. The earlier the patient is brought in to intensive care, the better. Some ways to prevent Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is eliminating or reducing contact with rodents in your home, workplace, or campsite.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Service some recommendations to prevent this disease are: Seal openings that may allow rats and mice to enter homes and workplaces, Remove brush, woodpiles, trash and other items that may attract rats and mice, tightly close garbage cans, pet food containers and other food sources, also it is recommended to open windows and doors to ventilate the area for at least 30 minutes before cleaning up nests or droppings found inside. This disease can affect anyone, but given some fundamental knowledge, it can also be very easy to prevent.

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