Hantavirus

In partnership with David Engelthaler, Epidemiologist Kaitlyn Snopek

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is an infectious respiratory disease that is usually found in rodent urine or droppings. It is known as being a “rare” disease, but that is a false accusation. In the United States alone, Hantavirus can be found in over half of the 50 states. Although Hantavirus is active in more than half of the U.S., you will usually only see cases as “freak accidents” as you can prevent it if you understand how it works.

The first case of Hantavirus in the United States was in 1993 when a mysterious disease was suddenly killing young Navajos in the four-corners area. In the spring before, there was an abundance of rain and it increased the food supply for the mice. With more and more mice, Hantavirus had a better chance of getting around and that was why it was so abundant.

Number of cases fatality rate in percentages

Hantavirus is transmitted by aerosolization, which is the inhaling of mouse droppings, saliva, or urine. The virus is picked up into the air and once inhaled, travels into the lungs. After it is in your lungs, the virus invades tiny blood vessels that will eventually burst. Once they start leaking, the lungs will flood with fluid and this can cause respiratory issues.

How Hantavirus can be inhaled very easily

There is really no cure for Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome that has been found yet. Since the Hantavirus causes leakage in the lungs, victims will have respiratory problems. Patients who do have this virus should just be treated for their respiratory problems. Scientists today are still trying to find a cure for Hantavirus.

Although Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is fatal, it can still be prevented. Anything that might attract mice or rodents you need to keep a close eye on. Setting up traps, or blocking the areas where rodents can get into your home is very important. You can also destroy any rodent bedding area near your home. Even though it may not be mice, there is still a chance that that rodent may be carrying Hantavirus. As long as you are aware of Hantavirus, and what it can do, you will be fine.

Even though there is no cure for Hantavirus yet, scientists like Mr. Engelthaler are still working diligently to find it today. Although you may not hear a ton of reports about Hantavirus today, it is still very important to know that it is out there. Even though it may not be a huge problem in your city/state, you still need to be aware of it and aware of how fatal it can be. It is also very, very important to be educated on ways to prevent Hantavirus. It hasn’t gone away, and you never know when a catastrophe can happen.

Sources:

• http://www.webmd.com/news/20120829/hantavirus-faq• http://www.hantavirus.net/• http://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps/prevention.html• http://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps/• http://

www.medicinenet.com/hantavirus_pulmonary_syndrome/page3.htm#what_is_the_history_of_hantavirus_pulmonary_syndrome

• http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hantavirus-pulmonary-syndrome/basics/definition/con-20030129

Hyperlink:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57owKyt2lLg

Voice Recording:

• http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=8061566

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Hantavirus and remember to always be aware of it!