Hantavirus Tracker

What is Hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are a family of RNA viruses spread primarily by rodents. Humans become infected through contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or by inhaling aerosolized particles from these materials. Person-to-person transmission is rare but has been documented with the Andes virus (ANDV) strain.

Symptoms

Early symptoms appear 1–8 weeks after exposure and include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, especially in the thighs, hips, and back. Later stages can progress to coughing, shortness of breath, and fluid-filled lungs. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) has a case fatality rate of approximately 36%.

Known Strains

• Andes virus (ANDV) — South America. Only strain with confirmed human-to-human transmission.
• Sin Nombre virus (SNV) — North America. Carried by deer mice. Most common cause of HPS in the US.
• Puumala virus (PUUV) — Europe. Causes a milder illness called nephropathia epidemica. Carried by bank voles.
• Hantaan virus (HTNV) — Asia. Causes hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).
• Seoul virus (SEOV) — Worldwide. Carried by rats. Can cause moderate HFRS.

Prevention

There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment. Prevention focuses on avoiding contact with rodents: sealing entry points in buildings, storing food securely, and safely cleaning areas with rodent activity using disinfectant (never dry sweeping or vacuuming).

Data Sources

• ttmgr/hantavirus — aggregated global case data
• WHO Disease Outbreak News
• ECDC Surveillance Atlas
• National health authorities (CDC, UKHSA, RKI)

Disclaimer

This tracker is for informational purposes only. Data may be delayed or incomplete. Always refer to official health authorities for medical guidance. If you suspect hantavirus exposure, seek immediate medical attention.