A family of viruses carried by rodents. Causes Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in the Americas. No licensed specific antiviral — early supportive care is critical.
The only hantavirus strain that spreads person-to-person. Requires close, prolonged contact — not airborne like COVID-19. Incubation: 4–42 days. Confirmed strain in the 2026 MV Hondius outbreak.
Early: fever, severe muscle aches, fatigue, headache, nausea. Late: shortness of breath, cough, fluid in lungs. Case fatality rate: 38–50%. Seek medical care immediately if exposed.
Avoid rodents and their droppings. Never dry-sweep — wet with disinfectant first. Wear gloves and N95 mask. Monitor 42 days if a close contact of a confirmed case. No vaccine.
No specific antiviral approved. Supportive care: oxygen, IV fluids, blood pressure support. ECMO can improve survival to ~80% if started early. Do not delay hospital care.