The provided context refers to Hantavirus, not "Hunters virus." Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious infectious disease that starts with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly progress to life-threatening lung and heart problems.
Here's a breakdown:
Understanding Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
HPS, also called hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome, is caused by viruses in the hantavirus family.
Transmission
- Rodents: Humans typically contract hantavirus through contact with rodents, particularly their urine, droppings, or saliva.
- Inhalation: The most common route of infection is inhaling airborne particles contaminated with the virus. This can occur when sweeping or disturbing rodent-infested areas.
- Direct Contact: Less commonly, people can become infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, or through rodent bites.
Symptoms
The early symptoms of HPS are similar to the flu and can include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches, especially in the thighs, hips, back, and sometimes shoulders
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Chills
- Abdominal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Later symptoms are more severe and include:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Fluid in the lungs
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis: HPS is diagnosed based on a patient's symptoms, history of potential rodent exposure, and laboratory tests to detect hantavirus antibodies.
- Treatment: There is no specific cure for HPS. Treatment primarily involves supportive care in an intensive care unit. This may include oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation to help with breathing. Early treatment improves the chances of survival.
Prevention
Preventing HPS involves controlling rodent populations and taking precautions to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings:
- Seal entry points: Seal holes and cracks in your home to prevent rodents from entering.
- Trap rodents: Use traps to control rodent populations.
- Clean safely: When cleaning rodent-infested areas, wear a mask and gloves, and wet down droppings before sweeping to avoid creating dust.
- Store food properly: Store food in rodent-proof containers.
- Maintain your yard: Keep your yard clean and free of debris that could attract rodents.
In summary, while there's no "Hunters virus," Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a serious disease transmitted by rodents, and prevention is key. If you experience flu-like symptoms and have been exposed to rodents, seek medical attention immediately.
