Hantavirus infection typically begins with symptoms that resemble the flu, making early detection challenging. The initial signs usually appear between one to eight weeks after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms include **fever and chills**, often with temperatures exceeding 101°F (38.3°C), accompanied by **headaches** and **severe muscle aches**, especially in large muscle groups. People may also experience **fatigue**, **dizziness**, and general malaise. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as **nausea**, **vomiting**, **stomach pain**, and **diarrhea** are common in the early phase as well.
As the infection progresses, it can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a severe respiratory condition. This second stage typically follows the initial flu-like symptoms by a few days and is marked by a rapid onset of **coughing** and **difficulty breathing** due to fluid accumulation in the lungs. The virus affects the cells lining the small blood vessels in the lungs, causing them to leak fluid, which severely impairs breathing. This can lead to **pulmonary edema**, where the lungs fill with fluid, making oxygen exchange difficult.
Other serious symptoms in this advanced stage include **low blood pressure**, **irregular heart rate**, and signs of heart strain, as the virus can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. Some patients may develop **anemia**, **thrombocytopenia** (low platelet count), and complications such as **pericardial effusion** (fluid around the heart) and **pulmonary emboli** (blood clots in the lungs).
Because hantavirus symptoms start with common flu-like signs, they can be easily mistaken for other illnesses. However, the progression to severe respiratory distress is a key warning sign. If someone experiences fever, muscle aches, headache, and gastrointestinal upset followed by sudden shortness of breath or coughing, especially after potential exposure to rodent droppings or urine, they should seek medical attention immediately.
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for hantavirus infection, so early recognition and supportive medical care, including oxygen therapy and intensive care if needed, are crucial for survival. The disease can be fatal in about 30-40% of cases, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention.
In summary, the symptoms of hantavirus infection evolve from flu-like signs—fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea—to severe respiratory symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing, and signs of heart and lung complications. Prompt medical evaluation is essential when these symptoms occur following exposure to environments contaminated by rodent excreta.
