For many people, vacation means stealing away to a remote wilderness amid trees and nature. As romantic and dreamy as it sounds, they come with their own set of risks. One such risk is the dreaded Hantavirus. It is a respiratory disease that is primarily carried by rodents like rats and mice, to which hikers and campers are particularly susceptible. Although it is rare, precaution is always better than a cure. So here’s all about what Hantavirus is and how you can guard yourself against it.
Recent Outbreak Of Hantavirus On The Cruise
Recently, a Hantavirus outbreak was reported on a Dutch cruise ship. It was reported that after a Dutch couple developed severe symptoms and succumbed to them. Five other fatalities on the cruise ship have also been linked to Hantavirus.
The cruise ship is heading to the Canary Islands, and doctors on board are trying to identify the infected passengers. Two Indians are also among the 149 passengers of the ship, although their health status has not been revealed.
This is one of the first, rare instances where the Hantavirus has been transmitted between humans. This has created a COVID-like panic situation in many people.
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What Is Hantavirus And How Does It Spread?
Hantavirus belongs to a family of viruses known as Orthohantaviruses. It is primarily carried by certain species of rodents, like the deer mouse. It is quite rare, but quite serious. If contracted, it can even be fatal. However, as of now, Hantavirus has a mortality rate of 38%.
The virus can be airborne via rodent urine or droppings. Additionally, it can even spread through bites via their saliva. Inhalation, however, is the most common way it spreads. The virus is more likely to get airborne if the faeces have been in a closed room for a long time.
Who Is At Risk?
While everyone should remain on guard, travelers who venture frequently into forests and other rodent habitats are more likely to contract it. Furthermore, people who have a penchant for remote or adventure travel and are likely to lodge in remote cabins are also quite susceptible to it.
People who open up remote cabins seasonally or vehicles that have been stationary for a long time are also likely to contract the disease unless cautious.
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What Are Its Main Symptoms Of Hantavirus?
The initial symptoms of the disease can be flu-like and, therefore, easy to misinterpret. Here is a comprehensive list of both early and late-stage symptoms of the disease.
Early Stage Symptoms:
The early stage symptoms are flu-like. They are as follows:
- High fever and chills
- Muscle aches (especially in thighs, hips, and back)
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Headaches and abdominal pain
Late Stage Symptoms:
In its advanced stages, it is called the Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). Its symptoms are as follows:
- Lungs filled with fluid (after four to ten days of the initial phase)
- Severe shortness of breath and coughing
Important Warning: If you experience shortness of breath after coming into contact with rodent droppings, seek immediate medical help.
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Travel Safety Tips Experts Want You To Know
- Airing Out A Space: Before entering a place that has been shut, air it out for at least 30 minutes.
- No Dry Sweeping: No sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings. It stirs the virus into the air. Wet the area with bleach and then clean it.
- Rodent-Proofing: Seal your food, gear, and trash in rodent-proof containers when camping.
- Tent Carefully: Avoid setting up tents near wood piles, trash heaps, and places with visible rodent burrows.
- Protective Gear: If you’re cleaning an infested area, use gloves and a high-quality (N95 or higher) mask/respirator.
FAQs
Can Hantavirus Kill You?
Yes, the disease can be fatal.
Can Humans Transmit Hantavirus To Other Humans?
Yes.
Can I Take A Vaccine For Hantavirus?
No, there is no vaccine as of now.
Can I Get Hantavirus From Dogs Or Cats?
No. Rodents are primary carriers, and it is likely that cats and dogs may bring infected rodents in.
What Regions Are At The Highest Risk?
It is found globally, but anywhere that has high rodent infestation is at risk, particularly North and South America.
