Common questions
Short answers to recurring questions about hantaviruses.
Can symptoms by themselves confirm hantavirus?
No. Early symptoms overlap with influenza, COVID-19, dengue, leptospirosis, sepsis, and other infections. Exposure history and laboratory testing are needed.
Do hantaviruses always spread person to person?
No. Most hantavirus infections come from rodent exposure. Limited person-to-person spread has been documented for Andes virus, usually after close and prolonged contact.
When should medical care be urgent?
Urgent care is appropriate when compatible symptoms follow rodent exposure or known Andes virus contact, especially with shortness of breath, chest pain, faintness, confusion, or rapid worsening.
Is there a specific vaccine or cure?
There is no widely licensed specific antiviral cure or vaccine for hantavirus infection. Early supportive care, oxygen, careful fluid management, dialysis when needed, and intensive monitoring can be critical.
How should rodent contamination be cleaned?
Do not dry sweep or vacuum. Ventilate the area, wet contaminated material with disinfectant, use suitable protective equipment, and keep rodents out of buildings.