A Doctor Explains All About Hantavirus

Hantavirus is one of many viruses that can occur when people come in contact with animals, specifically rodents. Hantaviruses cause two syndromes, though only one is common in the United States and it is called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Though the symptoms can mimic many other common illnesses, like the flu, it can become fatal if not identified and treated. We spoke with Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a pediatrician and asthma care physician with Kaiser Permanente, about the dangers of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and what we need to know to stay safe.

Q: How common is hantavirus pulmonary syndrome
It is important to understand that this is a fairly rare disease.
This may be in part because the symptoms mimic other respiratory illnesses, but it also could be because it is relatively hard to get. Though we don’t yet understand how Ms. Arakawa got the illness, there are certain situations that are more likely to put someone at risk.

Q: What is the incubation period for hantavirus? How long is it active?
Hantavirus most commonly comes from rodent droppings, urine and saliva. It is believed that the virus can live up to four days depending on the environment, however you should keep any indoor space vacant for at least a week after pest control treatment. It is an airborne disease that can be spread by rodent saliva, urine or feces and may be transmitted through inhalation, a rodent bite or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth.

Since hantavirus has only been reported in a small population, we don’t definitively understand how it affects humans. But in the cases we’ve observed, we suspect the virus has anywhere between a one- and eight-week incubation period after exposure.

Q: What are the symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome?
The symptoms are similar to other viral illnesses: fever, dry cough, body aches, headaches, and diarrhea. If the virus progresses it can lead to shortness of breath and fluid in the lungs.

Q: Can you treat and recover from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome?
Most mild cases can resolve by themselves, but usually supportive measures are needed and can be the key to helping a patient heal. For instance, if someone starts to develop fluid in their lungs, they may need help from a respirator or to be put in ICU for supportive care.

Q: How can we protect from hantavirus?
This virus most often spreads through the air, so that should be kept in mind when you are trying to prevent infection. If someone is in an area with rodent droppings, it would be a very good idea to wet down the area to minimize airborne particles, especially if they are being disturbed when you’re trying to clean up the droppings. You can do this with household disinfections, bleach, or alcohol. It is also a good idea to ventilate the area, open windows and doors so that clean air can circulate.