What is Hantavirus?
A Rare and Deadly Disease
Hantavirus is a rare and deadly disease caused by a family of viruses spread by rodent feces, saliva, and urine. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most hantaviruses found in the United States can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
How is Hantavirus Spread?
Hantavirus can be spread through various means, including:
* Breathing in air when cleaning up after rodents
* Touching contaminated objects and then touching one’s nose or mouth
* Getting bitten or scratched by an infected rodent
* Eating food contaminated with hantavirus
The Most Common Vector of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
The deer mouse is the most common vector of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the U.S. People typically begin experiencing symptoms one to eight weeks after exposure.
Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Early symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome include:
* Fatigue
* Fever
* Muscle aches
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Shortness of breath
* Tightness in the chest as lungs begin to fill with fluid
Treatment and Management of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
While there is no specific treatment for the virus, patients can be supported with:
* Rest
* Hydration
* Other treatments to manage symptoms
* In more severe cases, intubation may be necessary to assist with breathing
Prevention and Control
The risk of exposure to hantavirus can be minimized by:
* Sealing any areas of the home where rodents may enter
* Using traps to clear infestations
* Reducing rodent populations
The Case of Betsy Arakawa
Betsy Arakawa, the wife of actor Gene Hackman, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Her death was confirmed by Dr. Heather Jarrell, chief medical examiner at the New Mexico medical investigator’s office. Arakawa’s death highlights the importance of raising awareness about hantavirus and the need for proper prevention and control measures.
FAQs
* What is the mortality rate of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome? The mortality rate ranges between 38% and 50% among those infected in the American Southwest.
* What is the most common vector of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome? The deer mouse is the most common vector of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the U.S.
* Can hantavirus be spread through direct contact with rodents? Yes, hantavirus can be spread through direct contact with rodents, including being bitten or scratched.
* Is there a treatment for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome? While there is no specific treatment for the virus, patients can be supported with rest, hydration, and other treatments to manage symptoms.
