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Orthohantavirus (Sin Nombre) · Virus
Hantavirus (HPS)
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but frequently fatal respiratory disease carried by wild rodents — chiefly the deer mouse. Cases in the US cluster heavily in the Southwest and the Four Corners region.
Transmission
Breathing in aerosolized particles from the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents — often when cleaning enclosed spaces like cabins, sheds, or barns. Not spread person-to-person.
Incubation
1–8 weeks after exposure.
Seasonality
Most cases occur in spring and summer, tied to rodent activity and outdoor/cabin cleaning, concentrated in the rural West.
Symptoms
- Early: fever, fatigue, and severe muscle aches (thighs, hips, back)
- Headache, dizziness, chills, and abdominal upset
- Late (4–10 days): coughing and severe shortness of breath
- Lungs fill with fluid as the disease progresses
Prevention
- Air out closed spaces before cleaning; avoid stirring up dust
- Wet down droppings with disinfectant — never sweep or vacuum dry
- Seal homes and cabins to keep rodents out
- Wear gloves and a mask when handling rodents or nests
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