HANTAVIRUS: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
NEWS: Hanta virus spread
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?
The recent passing of Betsy Hackman, wife of actor Gene Hackman, has highlighted the dangers of hantavirus infections. Hantavirus, primarily transmitted through rodents, can cause serious diseases like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome.
What is Hantavirus?
• Hantaviruses Overview:
Hantaviruses belong to a family of viruses that can cause severe and potentially fatal diseases in humans. The two primary diseases caused by hantavirus are:
• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): A respiratory illness characterized by fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and shortness of breath, often leading to severe respiratory distress and high fatality rates.
• Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS): This illness involves internal bleeding, kidney failure, low blood pressure, and flu-like symptoms, leading to severe complications and potential death if untreated.
• Transmission of Hantavirus:
Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted through contact with rodents or their excrement, and humans can contract the virus in several ways:
1. Aerosolization: The most common mode of transmission, occurring when infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva mix with dust in the environment, becoming airborne. This is typically seen when cleaning areas that are infested with rodents or disturbing their nests.
2. Direct Contact: Handling infected rodents, their urine, droppings, or saliva can directly transmit the virus.
3. Rodent Bites: Although rare, hantavirus can be transmitted through bites from infected rodents.
• Rodent Species Responsible:
Several rodent species are known carriers of hantavirus, including:
• Deer Mice
• White-footed Mice
• Rice Rats
• Cotton Rats These rodents carry the virus in their urine, saliva, and droppings, which can then be spread to humans through aerosolized particles or direct contact.
• High-Risk Groups:
Certain individuals are more vulnerable to contracting hantavirus infections, including:
• Farmers and Construction Workers: Those working in or around areas infested by rodents are at a higher risk.
• Campers: People camping or spending time outdoors in rodent-prone areas should exercise caution.
• Children under Five: Young children are at a higher risk due to their play habits and closer contact with contaminated areas.
• Pregnant Women and Immunocompromised Individuals: These groups are more susceptible to severe complications from hantavirus infections and should avoid handling pet rodents or interacting with rodent habitats.
• Prevention and Safety Measures:
• Avoid Rodent Habitats: People should take precautions to avoid exposure to rodents, particularly in high-risk areas like farms, construction sites, and campsites.
• Proper Cleaning Techniques: When cleaning rodent-infested areas, it’s essential to wear gloves and use disinfectants to avoid aerosolizing the virus. Ensure that ventilation is adequate, and use masks if necessary.
• Treatment of Hantavirus:
There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus infections, but supportive care is crucial for improving patient outcomes:
• Oxygen Therapy: For patients experiencing breathing difficulties, supplemental oxygen can assist with lung function.
• Mechanical Ventilation: In severe cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), mechanical ventilation may be necessary to help with breathing.
• Early Detection: Prompt hospitalization and immediate care can significantly improve survival rates, especially when the infection is caught early and treated with supportive measures.
• Current Situation and Awareness:
The recent passing of Betsy Hackman, wife of actor Gene Hackman, brought renewed attention to the dangers of hantavirus infections, especially in regions where rodents are prevalent. Awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of avoiding contact with rodents and their waste to minimize the risk of infection.
Though rare, hantavirus infections are serious and should be taken seriously, with preventive measures being critical in limiting the spread of the virus.