Hantavirus: Viral Facts for Families

Hantaviruses are a family of different viruses which are spread mainly by rodents. There are many types of hantaviruses which can be found in different rodent species across the world. Many types of hantaviruses can cause severe infection of the lungs. Other types of hantaviruses can cause severe infection of the kidneys or other parts of the body.

How do people become infected with hantavirus?

Certain rodent species can be infected with hantaviruses. People can become infected with hantavirus when they come into contact with an infected rodent’s urine, droppings, or saliva. This can occur from direct contact with an infected rodent. More commonly, this occurs from disrupting nesting material and breathing in the contaminated air. Activities associated with infection include cleaning areas infested with rodents (such as attics), farming, and sleeping in rodent-infested dwellings.

In the United States, the deer mouse, white-footed mouse, and cotton rats can carry hantaviruses. Infections are very rare in the United States, with nearly all cases occurring in the Western United States. No cases of hantavirus have been reported in Ohio since tracking began in 1993. Other types of hantaviruses occur in rodents found outside of the United States. Infections in other parts of the world occur primarily in South America, Asia, and parts of Europe.

One specific type of hantavirus, the Andes virus, can also rarely spread person-to-person with prolonged, close contact. Spread is most likely during the early phase of illness and can infect household members or other close contacts.

What symptoms does hantavirus cause?

Different types of hantaviruses cause different symptoms. People infected with hantavirus usually develop symptoms one to eight weeks after exposure. Most types of hantaviruses found in the United States can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which is a severe infection of the lungs. People with HPS can initially have flu-like symptoms which can progress to severe cough, difficulty breathing, and fluid build-up in the lungs.

How is hantavirus treated?

People with severe infection due to hantavirus need medical care in the hospital. Treatment involves supporting breathing and vital signs, often in the intensive care unit. There are no antiviral medications to treat hantavirus infection.

What can I do for my family to prevent hantavirus?

Most people’s risk of being exposed to hantaviruses is extremely low.

While there is no vaccine to prevent hantavirus infections, people can further reduce their already very low risk through simple measures:

• Avoid direct contact with wild rodents or with their nests. If your hands become contaminated, promptly wash with soap and water.
• Keeping your home clean, properly storing food, and sealing openings can prevent rodent infestations in your house.
• Maintain a clean yard around your house, including trimming grass, removing brush, and keeping woodpiles away from the home. Keep garbage stored in sealed containers.
• When cleaning any area which may be contaminated with rodents, use safe cleaning practices including use of a respirator and gloves.
• Pet owners can consult with a veterinarian about testing new rats before introducing into their homes. Keep pet rats away from wild rodents.
• If hiking or camping in areas with increased activity (such as the Western United States), avoid rodent-infested cabins or entering rodent nests. Do not vacuum or sweep any dry droppings.

What about cruise ships?

As of the time of this writing, more than 10 people have been infected with the Andes virus associated with a transatlantic cruise ship. Passengers and potential contacts from over 20 countries are currently being monitored. While details are still emerging, currently the overall risk to the general public is extremely low.

Unlike COVID-19 or norovirus, Andes virus does not spread easily person-to-person. The risk of exposure to hantaviruses on a cruise ship is extremely remote. Vacationers planning a family cruise trip this summer should still take basic steps, such as proper hand hygiene, to prevent getting sick from norovirus or other viruses. For cruises or trips that involve wilderness expeditions to areas with increased activity, follow basic prevention efforts to avoid rodents (and still wash your hands!)