What are some unknown facts about the Hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are RNA virus. Some hantaviruses can cause a rare but deadly disease called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The disease is called HPS for short.

Early symptoms of hantavirus infections (fatigue, fever, muscle aches) are not caused by anything specific.

Who gets Hantavirus?

Those at the highest risk of getting hantavirus include people who spend time in and around areas where rodents live.

People get HPS when they breathe in hantaviruses. This can happen when rodent urine and droppings that contain hantavirus are stirred up into the air.

How can HPS be prevented?

• Keep mice and rats out of your home.

• Clean up mouse and rat urine, droppings, and nesting materials with a disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water.

How to clean

Open all doors and windows. Leave them open for 30 minutes before cleaning.

Wear rubber or plastic gloves.

Spray the dead mouse, rat, or nest, as well as the surrounding area, with a disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water.

Wash hands with soap and warm water after removing your gloves.

Keep foods (including for animals/pets) in tightly sealed and un-chewable containers.

How is Hantavirus treated?

Currently, there is no treatment for Hantavirus, so people who think they have it should contact their physician immediately to get supportive care with medication.