Hantavirus infection symptoms typically appear between one to eight weeks after exposure to
infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. The illness often begins with mild flu-like symptoms,
making early diagnosis challenging, but it can rapidly progress into severe and potentially lifethreatening complications if left untreated.
During the early phase, which usually lasts between two to seven days, patients commonly
experience fever, chills, fatigue, and intense muscle pain, particularly in large muscle groups such as the thighs, hips, and back. Other symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain,nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can often be mistaken for seasonal flu or other viral infections.
As the disease progresses, symptoms can worsen significantly within four to ten days. In the
Americas, hantavirus commonly leads to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which causes
coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and rapid fluid buildup in the lungs, often resulting in severe respiratory distress.
In Europe and Asia, the virus is more commonly associated with Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal
Syndrome (HFRS), which can lead to low blood pressure, shock, internal bleeding, and acute kidney failure.
Health experts warn that hantavirus can be fatal if not treated promptly. Individuals who develop severe flu-like symptoms, persistent cough, or breathing difficulties after possible rodent exposure should seek immediate medical attention.
By
HB Team
