Hanta virus

Alternative names:

hantavirus pulmonary syndrome

Treatment:

Because the breathing problems progress rapidly and there is a high death rate, treatment must occur in the hospital, often with admission to an intensive care unit.

Oxygen therapy is used, and regulated by close monitoring of the blood gases. Respiratory support with a breathing tube (endotracheal tube) and ventilator becomes necessary in severe cases.

IV ribavirin therapy is experimental and is under evaluation for efficacy.

Expectations (prognosis):

Hantavirus is a serious infection with a death rate (even with aggressive treatment) exceeding 50%.

Complications:

• cardiorespiratory failure
• death

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have had any exposure to mouse urine or feces (excreta), or dust that may have been contaminated with mouse excreta, and you have developed influenza-like symptoms.