Hantavirukset

Hantavirukset are a group of viruses that are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected rodents, primarily in the genus Sigmodon and Apodemus. These viruses belong to the family Hantaviridae and are named after the Hantan River in South Korea, where the first outbreak was identified in 1950. Hantaviruses are enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses with a segmented genome.

There are several species of hantaviruses, each associated with specific rodent hosts and geographic regions. The most well-known hantaviruses include Hantaan virus, Seoul virus, and Puumala virus. Hantavirus infections in humans can range from asymptomatic to severe, with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. In some cases, hantavirus infection can lead to a potentially fatal disease called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which affects the lungs.

Hantavirus infections are typically diagnosed through laboratory testing of blood samples, urine, or tissue samples. There is no specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus infections, and management focuses on supportive care. Prevention involves avoiding contact with rodents and their droppings, as well as maintaining clean living conditions to minimize rodent infestations. Vaccines are not currently available for hantavirus infections.