Hantavirus Outbreak: What is hantavirus and how does it spread?

Hantavirus refers to a family of viruses spread mainly by rodents. In North America, the most common result of infection is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). a severe respiratory disease. Transmission occurs when humans breathe in air contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. The disease has a high fatality rate but rare, making awareness and proper cleanup of rodent-infested areas vital for public safety. 

Hantavirus Outbreak on the MV Hondius

A recent Outbreak is seen in Dutch expedition ship MV Hondius. The vessel, which departed from Argentina in April, has reported three deaths and at least eight confirmed or suspected cases. Experts have identified the Andes virus strain, which is uniquely capable of rare human-to-human transmission.

What is Hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are RNA viruses found worldwide. In the Americas, "New World" hantaviruses can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). In Europe and Asia, "Old World" hantaviruses usually cause Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).

The hantavirus remains a persistent zoonotic (animals to people). It first occurred in the United States in 1993 in the Four Corners region. Hantavirus is not a single virus but a group of them, each typically carried by a specific rodent species. 

Hantaviruses in the United States are not known to spread between humans. Instead, each strain is linked to a specific long-term host. For example, the Sin Nombre virus, which causes most HPS cases in the U.S., is carried by the deer mouse.

How Does Hantavirus Spread?

The primary mode of transmission of virus is airborne exposure. The virus is shed in the waste of infected rodents, but humans do not  necessarily need to touch a mouse to get sick. Here is the following the ways the Hantavirus can spread: 

• Aerosolisation: Aerosolisation is the most common route to spread. It is spread when rodent urine or droppings are stirred up; For example: sweeping or vacuuming by tiny droplets containing the virus enter the air. Humans then breathe in these contaminated particles.
• Direct Contact: Direct touching contaminated surfaces, nests, or the rodents themselves after that touching your nose or mouth can introduce the virus into your system.
• Bites: a bite from an infected rodent can transmit the virus directly into the bloodstream although it is less. 

Symptoms and Progression

HPS is particularly dangerous because its early symptoms are the common flu, which can lead to a delay in medical intervention.

The early symptoms (Days 1–5) are Fatigue, fever, and muscle aches (especially in the thighs, hips, and back) and  headaches, dizziness, or abdominal pain can also be experienced. 

After 4 to 10 days after the later phase  the "pulmonary stage" begins. The lungs fill with fluid, causing severe shortness of breath and coughing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the mortality rate for HPS is approx 38%. Immediate medical attention is critical if symptoms appear after exposure to rodent-infested areas.

Prevention and Safe Cleanup

Eliminating rodent infestations is the most effective way to prevent infection. If you are cleaning a space that has been vacant or shows signs of mice (like a shed, cabin, or garage), follow these safety protocols:

• Ventilate: Open doors and windows for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.

• Do Not Sweep or Vacuum: This kicks the virus into the air.

• Disinfect: Wear gloves and spray droppings or nesting materials with a mixture of bleach and water 1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Let it soak for 5 minutes.

• Seal Entry Points: Use steel wool or caulk to seal holes in your home that are larger than a pencil eraser.

A recent Hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, caused by the Andes virus, has resulted in three deaths and multiple cases, highlighting its severe respiratory impact. The article details Hantavirus transmission via rodent waste, its flu-like symptoms progressing to HPS, and vital prevention strategies including safe cleanup.

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