What is Hantavirus?
Disease overview — WHO, CDC & ECDC guidance
Hantaviruses are a family of rodent-borne viruses. Human infection is uncommon but can be severe, with two distinct disease patterns depending on the viral strain and the region of the world.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Found across the Americas. Primarily affects the lungs. Case-fatality reported up to ~38% (CDC).
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Reported across Europe and Asia. Primarily affects kidneys, with bleeding and shock in severe cases. Case-fatality 1–15% depending on strain.
How does hantavirus spread?
Hantaviruses circulate in wild rodents, which shed the virus in urine, droppings and saliva without showing illness themselves. Humans are infected almost exclusively through environmental contact, not from other people.
Breathing aerosolised dust contaminated with rodent excreta — often when cleaning closed sheds, cabins or barns.
Touching rodents or contaminated surfaces, then touching eyes, nose or mouth.
Rare route of transmission.
Generally not documented. The Andes virus in southern Argentina and Chile is the established exception with limited human-to-human spread.
Who is at risk?
Risk is driven by exposure to rodent habitats, not by age or general health.
Prevention
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Confirmed through serology (IgM/IgG antibodies) or PCR. Early symptoms resemble influenza — always mention rodent exposure to a clinician.
Treatment
Supportive care only: oxygen and intensive care for HPS; fluid and kidney management for HFRS. Early hospital care significantly improves outcomes.
Vaccine status
Frequently asked questions
How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
The incubation period is typically 1 to 8 weeks. Most people develop symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks.
Is hantavirus contagious between people?
Person-to-person transmission is generally not documented. The one well-described exception is the Andes virus in southern Argentina and Chile, which has shown limited human-to-human spread.
What should I do if I think I've been exposed to rodent droppings?
Avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings. Ventilate the area, wet contaminated surfaces with disinfectant or bleach, wear gloves and a well-fitting mask, and watch for fever, muscle aches or shortness of breath in the following 1 to 8 weeks. Seek medical care early if symptoms appear.
Where is hantavirus most common?
HPS occurs across the Americas, with hotspots in the U.S. Four Corners region and Patagonia. HFRS is most reported in China, the Korean peninsula, Russia, the Balkans, Scandinavia and parts of central Europe.