Frequently asked questions
Direct answers to common questions about hantaviruses.
Can hantavirus be diagnosed from symptoms alone?
No. Early symptoms overlap with influenza, COVID-19, dengue, leptospirosis, sepsis, and other infections. Laboratory testing plus exposure history is required.
Is hantavirus always spread between people?
No. Most hantaviruses are acquired from rodent exposure. Limited person-to-person transmission has been documented for Andes virus, usually after close and prolonged contact.
When should someone seek urgent medical care?
Urgent care is appropriate if compatible symptoms follow rodent exposure or known Andes virus contact, especially with shortness of breath, chest pain, faintness, confusion, or rapid deterioration.
Is there a specific cure or vaccine?
There is no widely licensed specific antiviral cure or vaccine for hantavirus infection. Early supportive care, oxygen, careful fluids, dialysis when needed, and intensive monitoring can be critical.
What is the safest way to clean rodent contamination?
Avoid dry sweeping or vacuuming. Ventilate the area, wet contaminated material with disinfectant, use protective equipment when appropriate, and prevent rodents from entering buildings.