Hantavirus Andes Strain: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention

What is Hantavirus, and what is the Andes strain?

Hantavirus is a group of viruses transmitted to humans primarily through infected wild rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. In the Americas, infection can lead to a severe respiratory illness - Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). The Andes strain is a specific Hantavirus strain found in South America that can be transmitted from person to person through close, prolonged contact with an infected individual. 

Who is at risk of Hantavirus and how to prevent it?

Individuals at the highest risk of acquiring Hantavirus are those who work/live in rodent-infested environments. This may include hikers, campers, farmers, pest control workers, construction workers, and individuals cleaning old sheds, cabins, and barns, which may be rodent-infested. The best way to reduce risk is to avoid rodent-infested environments whenever possible. 

To avoid rodent infestation, seal all possible entry points for rodents, remove food sources that may attract rodents, and set up traps to catch the remaining indoor rodents. 

For pest control workers and individuals required to clean/work in old cabins, it is best to wear proper gear, i.e., rubber gloves, a well-fitted N95 mask, and protective goggles. Ventilating the area by opening all doors and windows for 30-60 minutes before starting the work is crucial. Avoid sweeping/ vacuuming rodent droppings as this may aerosolize the virus and increase the risk of inhalation. It is best to spray a disinfectant solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) on rodent droppings, dead rodents, and nests till very wet. Let the disinfectant solution remain for 5-10 minutes and then use paper towels to remove contaminated material and wipe up counters/ mop floors. Discard all the used paper towels, cleaning material, rodent droppings, etc., in a double plastic trash bag, tightly sealed, and dispose of it in a closed trash container. 

The Andes strain, found mainly in South America, may spread from person to person through prolonged close contact. It is key to avoid prolonged close contact with infected individuals. 

Signs and Symptoms - 

Hantavirus symptoms in humans usually develop about 1-8 weeks after exposure, and early symptoms include flu-like symptoms, fever, fatigue, intense muscle pain, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can worsen in 4-10 days and lead to complications like dry cough, difficulty in breathing, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, and increased heart rate.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a complication of Hantavirus found in the Americas, and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) is a complication of Hantavirus found in Europe and Asia.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Hantavirus; supportive care with fluid and blood pressure management and oxygen support when required is used. The key is early diagnosis and management. Individuals exposed to infected rodents or exposure to individuals infected with Hantavirus and showing early signs and symptoms should seek medical care for early management of the disease.

Hantavirus is not a new disease; cases of Hantavirus have been recorded for decades globally. Hantavirus surveillance in the USA began in 1993 after an outbreak. Several case reports have been published on Hantavirus from different parts of the World. The recent reports of Hantavirus cases associated with cruise travel in 2026 have increased public concern. It is essential to remember that the risk to the general public is low; current evidence does not suggest that Hantavirus poses a pandemic-level threat to the general population. While people are concerned, it is also important not to give in to panic and false news. Prevention is key; avoiding rodent-infested environments and taking proper precautions are crucial.