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Hantavirus Infections
(Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome)
What are hantaviruses?
Hantaviruses are a type of virus found in rodents in different parts
of the world. Hantavirus infections were first identified in the southwestern
U.S. in 1993. In recent years, sporadic cases have been found in several
eastern states including New York. Studies have shown that mice are
often infected and appear to be the source of infection.
Is this illness common to humans?
No. Hantavirus infections are rare. No one believes the virus will
start an epidemic, but sporadic or isolated cases may occur throughout
the country.
How is the virus transmitted?
The virus is carried by rodents such as mice which are found throughout
North America. Infected rodents shed the live virus in saliva, droppings
and urine. Humans are infected when they inhale microscopic particles
that contain rodent urine or droppings. Insect bites and pets are not
believed to play a role in Hantavirus transmission.
Can people infect each other?
There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission. No health care
workers have been infected while caring for infected persons.
What are the symptoms?
Typical symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, cough and headache.
After several days, respiratory problems worsen rapidly. The lungs may
fill with fluid and victims may die of respiratory failure.
How long does it take to develop symptoms after exposure?
Typically one to two weeks, but it may range from a few days up to
six weeks.
Is there any treatment?
There is no specific treatment for Hantavirus. Physicians have been
administering ribavarin, an antiviral drug, on an experimental basis
to suspected victims.
Is the disease always fatal?
No. Although many of the cases have been fatal, a number have been
mild.
What is the best way to prevent exposure to hantavirus?
Avoid contact with rodents. Since rodents are the primary means of
transmitting these viruses, eliminating contact with them is the best
way to avoid infection. Also avoid contact with their droppings and
urine. When cleaning up rodent droppings, wet them down first with a
bleach solution and wear gloves.
What should be done to clean up after rodents?
Dwellings with large amounts of rodent droppings should first be aired
out while unoccupied. It is important to keep droppings from getting
into the air where they can be inhaled. Scientists believe that people
are exposed when they inhale contaminated material. The rodent debris
should be thoroughly wet down with a household disinfectant solution
(consisting of detergent plus 1 and 1/2 cups of bleach for each gallon
of water) to reduce airborne dust. An old spray bottle is ideal for
applying the solution. Debris should then be wiped up and placed in
double plastic bags for disposal, together with any cleanup materials
such as paper towels, etc. Do not use vacuum cleaners or sweep with
brooms, which will create dust in the air. Use of gloves, dust mist
masks, long-sleeved clothing and protective eyewear may help prevent
personal exposure. Wash hands with soap and water after completing the
cleanup. Rodent-proofing measures should be applied to dwellings to
prevent animal entry. Consult an exterminator or your local health department
for additional information on rodent control.
Should I set traps to catch the mice?
Yes, but use precautions. Wear gloves. If snap traps are used, the
trap should be discarded along with the dead rodent. Direct contact
with the animal and its droppings should be avoided. After eliminating
rodents from a building, the conditions that attracted them there (improperly
stored food sources, rubbish, etc.) should be corrected.
Will the 'fume bombs' sold over-the-counter kill the virus?
Probably not. The virus is best inactivated by contact with the liquid
disinfectant such as the detergent and household bleach solution described
above.
Where can I get more information?
If you are seriously ill with a high fever, consult a doctor or local
emergency room immediately. For general information, call your local
or state health department.
Updated: April 1996
Source: NY State Department of Health
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