What Is Hantavirus? Symptoms, Transmission Routes, and Prevention Methods

The disease, which can be transmitted through contact with the feces, urine, or saliva of rodents such as mice and rats, may often go unnoticed because it can begin with flu like symptoms in the early stages. Experts from Biruni University Faculty of Medicine Hospital emphasize the need for caution especially in rural areas, storage spaces, basements, barns, and places that have remained closed for long periods.

How Is Hantavirus Transmitted?

Hantavirus is most commonly transmitted through contact with the secretions of infected rodents. When the urine, feces, or saliva of virus carrying rodents dries and becomes airborne, inhaling these particles can lead to infection.

Modes of transmission include:

• Contact with rodent feces and urine
• Inhalation of virus contaminated dust in enclosed and poorly ventilated areas
• Rodent bites
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then contacting the mouth, nose, or eyes

Transmission of the virus from person to person is extremely rare.

What Are the Symptoms of Hantavirus?

The disease usually appears 1 to 5 weeks after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms are often mistaken for the flu.

Most common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Weakness and severe fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain

In advanced cases:

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Fluid accumulation in the lungs
• Impaired kidney function
• Low blood pressure

serious conditions may develop.

Who Is at Risk?

The following groups are at higher risk:

• Individuals involved in agriculture and livestock farming
• People working in forested areas
• Those cleaning storage areas, basements, or barns
• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts
• Individuals entering spaces that have been closed for long periods

How Can You Protect Yourself from Hantavirus?

Experts emphasize that hygiene and rodent control are crucial for prevention.

Protective measures include:

• Using masks and gloves in areas where rodents are present
• Ventilating enclosed spaces before cleaning
• Avoiding sweeping or dry cleaning of rodent droppings
• Cleaning with disinfectants such as bleach
• Storing food in sealed containers
• Preventing rodents from entering living spaces

Cleaning rodent droppings with a vacuum cleaner is not recommended, as it may cause the virus to become airborne.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

If symptoms such as high fever, muscle pain, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue develop after rodent exposure, a healthcare facility should be consulted without delay. Early diagnosis and supportive care play a key role in preventing severe outcomes.

Is There a Treatment for Hantavirus?

Although there is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus in every case, supportive care provided in the early stages can contribute to recovery. In severe cases, intensive care and respiratory support may be required.

Experts stress that individuals working in areas with a risk of rodent exposure should take appropriate protective measures, as this is vital.