Hantavirus: Two Syndromes, One Global Zoonotic Threat

Hantaviruses are viruses primarily transmitted by rodents and are found across the Americas, Europe and Asia. Although human infections are uncommon, they can cause severe diseases such as Hantaviruses Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) or Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), with early symptoms that may resemble influenza (fever, muscle pain and fatigue). Severe cases may progress to respiratory or renal complications, with mortality rates of 40% and 5–15%, depending on the virus.

No Specific Treatment: Surveillance and Prevention

There is currently no widely available vaccine and no specific antiviral treatment, although most hantaviruses are not transmitted between humans. Most infections occur through inhalation of contaminated particles from the urine, saliva or faeces of infected rodents. Only limited cases of person-to-person transmission involving the Andes virus have been described. Therefore, early detection and prevention (reducing contact with rodents and contaminated environments) are essential.

Hantaviruses outbreaks are influenced by interactions between wildlife, environmental conditions and human activity. This highlights the importance of a 'One Health' approach, which integrates public health, animal health, and environmental health. Climate variability, land-use changes and human exposure to rodent habitats may alter transmission risk.

This infographic summarises the main differences between both diseases, their animal reservoirs, routes of transmission, and the most effective prevention measures.

Click on the image to download the infographic in PDF format (1.7 MB).