Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe respiratory illness caused by hantaviruses, carried by certain rodents. Humans typically contract the disease by inhaling aerosolized particles from rodent urine, droppings, and saliva. While HPS is serious and can be fatal, survival is possible with timely medical intervention.
Understanding Survival Outcomes
Survival from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome depends on several factors, including early detection and access to comprehensive medical care. Specific hantavirus strains also influence outcomes, as their virulence can vary. For instance, Sin Nombre virus, the most common cause of HPS in North America, has a mortality rate often reported around 35% to 40%. The overall case fatality rate for HPS can range from 30% to 60%.
The virus primarily affects the lungs, causing capillaries to leak fluid and leading to respiratory distress. Rapid progression, where lungs fill with fluid, often necessitates intensive care. Early recognition and aggressive supportive care are important for improving survival.
Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis
Recognizing Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome symptoms is important, especially with potential rodent exposure. Early symptoms often resemble the flu, appearing one to eight weeks after exposure. These initial signs can include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
The illness can progress rapidly, with late symptoms developing four to ten days after the initial phase. These more severe symptoms primarily affect the respiratory system, including coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness as fluid accumulates in the lungs. Healthcare providers diagnose HPS using blood tests for hantavirus-specific antibodies or molecular tests like PCR. Early diagnosis is challenging due to non-specific initial symptoms, but prompt medical consultation with an exposure history can guide testing.
Approaches to Treatment
There is no specific antiviral medication or cure for Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. Treatment focuses on supportive care, managing symptoms and supporting the body while the immune system fights the infection. Patients are typically admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring.
Interventions include oxygen therapy for breathing and careful fluid management to prevent lung fluid buildup. For severe respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation may be necessary for adequate oxygenation. Early and aggressive supportive care improves patient outcomes.
Preventing Hantavirus Infection
Preventing Hantavirus infection involves minimizing contact with rodents and their droppings. Effective rodent control includes sealing holes in homes and outbuildings, using traps, and storing food, water, and garbage in tightly sealed containers.
When cleaning contaminated areas, take precautions to avoid inhaling virus particles. Ventilate the space for at least 30 minutes before cleanup. Wear rubber or plastic gloves and avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings. Instead, wet down contaminated areas with disinfectant or a bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) before wiping. During outdoor activities, avoid disturbing dusty areas that might harbor rodents and stay on designated paths.