Hantavirus infection

Hantavirus infection is a viral disease transmitted mainly by infected wild rodents. The virus can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of contaminated particles from the urine, faeces or saliva of these animals.

Hantaviruses can cause different forms of disease depending on the viral variant and the geographical area. In Europe and Asia, the most common form is haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, whereas in the Americas the predominant form is hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome. In the case of the American Andes variant, person-to-person transmission has also been demonstrated.

In some cases, the infection can cause severe impairment of the kidneys, the respiratory system and blood circulation.

Symptoms

The infection usually begins suddenly with high fever, headache, severe muscle pain and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are also common. In the most severe cases, the disease may progress with hypotension, renal involvement, haemorrhage and acute respiratory failure associated with pulmonary oedema.

Who is affected by the disease?

The infection can affect anyone exposed to infected rodents or contaminated spaces, especially in rural or forest environments.

The risk is higher in:

• Agricultural and forestry workers
• Military personnel
• Field researchers
• People handling contaminated materials
• People entering enclosed spaces with rodent presence

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, exposure history and microbiological confirmation. To confirm the infection, techniques such as RT-PCR are used to detect the virus in blood, along with serological tests to identify specific antibodies.

Usual treatment

There is currently no established specific antiviral treatment. Treatment is mainly supportive and includes close monitoring of respiratory and haemodynamic function. The most severe cases may require mechanical ventilation, vasopressor support or renal replacement therapy.

Prevention

Prevention is based on rodent control and reducing exposure to contaminated spaces or materials. It is also important to apply personal protective measures in environments with epidemiological risk.