JCPH Hantavirus Signs and Symptoms

Possible Exposure to Hantavirus?
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a rare condition associated with exposure to rodents and rodent-contaminated materials.
Researchers believe approximately 8 percent of all deer mice, a common pest in our area, carry hantavirus. The most common way humans contract HPS is by inhaling the virus from infected materials in the air, such as dust that has been disturbed during sweeping or vacuuming in areas containing rodent droppings, urine, saliva, and nesting materials. However, there are reports of the virus being introduced into humans through broken skin or mucous membranes, rodent bites, or ingestion of contaminated materials. You cannot get hantavirus from another person.

If you have been exposed to hantavirus, you may begin experiencing the symptoms of HPS anywhere from 3 days to 6 weeks afterwards. UNCHECKED, THIS DISEASE PROGRESSES RAPIDLY. YOU MUST SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU BEGIN EXPERIENCING THESE SYMPTOMS.

INITIAL ONSET OF HPS 3 days to 6 weeks after exposure:	ILLNESS GETS MORE SEVERE approximately 3 to 7 days after initial onset:
Fever of 101 F or higher Muscle aches Headache Back pain Chills Dizziness Cough Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Shortness of breath	Difficulty breathing Increased shortness of breath Cough worsens Low blood pressure HOSPITALIZATION BECOMES NECESSARY.

387 human cases of HPS were reported in the U.S. from 1993-2005.
38% of all reported cases have resulted in death.
About 3/4 of HPS patients have lived in rural areas.
7 cases of human HPS have been reported in Wyoming since 1999.
Almost HALF of these patients died from HPS.

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For more information about hantavirus, including local efforts, and educational materials, please contact us at our Buffalo office.