How to Identify Hantavirus

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By Denise Wang
eHow Contributing Writer

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Hantavirus is a respiratory virus that is caused by contact with animal urine and feces, especially rodents. The deer mouse is the primary carrier of the virus. The condition is also known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). The virus is known to survive at normal room temperatures for 2 to 3 days, creating risks to those in rural farm and agricultural areas. Infected rodents leave urine, droppings and saliva behind, which may be inhaled by humans after droppings dry. The virus is extremely dangerous and may be lethal. Understanding the symptoms of hantavirus as well as understanding the virus encourages individuals to practice safety precautions to prevent inhalation and infection.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Rubber, latex or nitrile gloves
Bleach
Mask

Step 1

Recognizing the early signs of hantavirus infection may mean the difference between life and death. Early signs include low grade fever and chills. These symptoms mimic flu-like symptoms, so pay extra attention to your body and be on the alert for additional symptoms, such as those listed below. Symptoms generally occur within 5 days to 3 weeks following inhalation.
Step 2

Experiencing muscle aches and fatigue are also symptoms of hantavirus. A lack of energy or lethargy also accompanies these symptoms.
Step 3

Coughing as if there is dust in the throat is another symptom hantavirus. Because the virus is inhaled, irritation of the mouth, throat and esophagus are common.
Step 4

Experiencing dizziness, headaches and abdominal discomfort are also symptoms of hantavirus.
Step 5

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath are also indicative of lung disfunction. This is the cardiopulmonary phase of the disease that is caused by lungs filling with fluids.

Tips & Warnings

While hantavirus symptoms may first present like flu, the individual with hantavirus will not experience sore throat, earaches or any type of rash, which as often signs that medical personnel use to differentiate between the two. When cleaning up rodent droppings, wear a mask, cover hands and use bleach!
Seek medical help immediately if you suspect you have been exposed to hantavirus, especially if you develop difficulty breathing.

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