Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is a potentially fatal respiratory illness caused by a virus found in the saliva, urine, and droppings of some rodents. People can become infected with the virus by breathing contaminated dust, touching an infected rodent or rodent urine or droppings, or being bitten by an infected rodent.
Fever, fatigue, and muscle aches develop about 2 to 3 weeks after being exposed to the virus. A few days later, coughing and shortness of breath become severe as fluid builds up in the lungs (pulmonary edema). HCPS is diagnosed with laboratory tests.
Early treatment for HCPS is important for survival. Treatment includes supportive care for breathing and prevention of shock. HCPS can be prevented by avoiding contact with rodents and their droppings.
Symptoms usually start 2 to 3 weeks after a person has been exposed to the virus. Early symptoms may include:
You quickly will become very sick. Within a few days, you'll start to have more serious symptoms, such as:
HCPS is a serious lung problem that can be deadly.
HCPS requires treatment in a hospital right away, even if the case is mild. You will get treatment to support you through the illness, such as intravenous (I.V.) fluids and medicines. You may need a ventilator to help you breathe.
People who survive the illness usually recover quickly.
The best way to prevent HCPS is to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings. If you live in or visit an area where the viruses have been found:
Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms, past health, and exposure to rodents. You may have other tests, such as chest X-rays, a complete blood count, and an oxygen saturation test.
Your doctor will know for sure that you have HCPS only if you have the signs of HCPS and if tests show that the virus is or has been in your blood or tissues.
This condition is treated in the hospital. While you're recovering, follow any instructions your doctor gives you. And go to any follow-up appointments.
Most cases of HCPS in the U.S. are caused by one type of hantavirus found in the deer mouse. People can become infected by:
North America has never had a known case of one person spreading the illness to another. And people do not get HCPS from farm animals, pets, or insects. But your pet may bring home an infected rodent.
Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is a lung infection caused by viruses found in the saliva, urine, and droppings of some rodents. The illness is rare but can be deadly.
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