Concerns over a possible hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship have raised global attention on the rodent-borne disease, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to share important information about hantavirus symptoms, transmission and prevention.
The global health agency shared an awareness video on X, explaining that hantaviruses are zoonotic viruses that naturally infect rodents and can occasionally spread to humans.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried by certain rodent species across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Humans can become infected after coming into contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings and saliva.
While human-to-human transmission is rare, health experts say it has been documented in some outbreaks.
Hantavirus Symptoms
According to the WHO, early hantavirus symptoms often resemble common viral illnesses and may appear between one and eight weeks after infection.
Common hantavirus symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
In severe cases, hantavirus can lead to serious respiratory illness and other life-threatening complications.
How Does Hantavirus Spread?
Health experts say hantavirus mainly spreads through exposure to infected rodents or contaminated areas. People may become infected by:
- Breathing in particles contaminated with rodent urine or droppings
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face
- Contact with rodent saliva or bites
The virus is commonly associated with poorly ventilated spaces where rodents may be present.
How to Prevent Hantavirus
The WHO advises people to reduce exposure to rodents and maintain clean environments to lower the risk of infection.
Ways to prevent hantavirus include:
- Keeping homes and workplaces clean
- Sealing holes and openings where rodents can enter
- Storing food securely
- Using safe cleaning methods when handling rodent droppings
- Wearing protective gear while cleaning heavily contaminated areas
There is currently no approved antiviral treatment or vaccine for hantavirus. However, early medical care and supportive treatment can significantly improve survival chances.