Hantaviruses are rodent-borne pathogens that cause two distinct, life-threatening syndromes across the globe.

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Carried by rodents worldwide, hantaviruses jump to humans through contact with contaminated droppings, urine, or saliva. While most infections are rare, they can trigger severe respiratory failure or kidney disease. Though usually not contagious between people, one specific strain in the Americas has shown rare instances of human-to-human transmission.

Hantaviruses are a diverse group of viruses naturally hosted by rodents, where they typically cause persistent, asymptomatic infections. When transmitted to humans—usually through inhaling aerosolized particles from rodent waste or direct contact—the resulting illness varies significantly by geography. In Europe and Asia, these viruses are known as Old World strains and primarily cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), a condition that targets the kidneys and blood vessels. In contrast, New World hantaviruses found in the Americas are associated with hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS), a severe, rapidly progressing illness that causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs and can lead to heart failure.

The clinical presentation often begins with non-specific symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and nausea, making early diagnosis difficult as these signs mimic common illnesses like influenza or dengue. In HFRS, the disease may progress through phases involving low blood pressure and kidney dysfunction. For HCPS, the danger lies in the sudden onset of respiratory distress. Because there is no specific antiviral cure or vaccine, medical management focuses on supportive care, such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, to help patients survive the acute phase of the infection.

While most hantaviruses do not spread between humans, the Andes virus in South America is a notable exception, with documented cases of transmission following close, prolonged contact. Mortality rates vary widely; HFRS generally carries a fatality rate of less than 1% to 15%, whereas HCPS is more lethal, with estimates historically reaching up to 50%. However, modern clinical support has improved outcomes significantly. The risk remains highest for those in rural or agricultural settings where human and rodent habitats overlap, though cleaning enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces can also increase exposure risk.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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