How serious is Hantavirus disease?

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried mainly by rodents. People can become infected after breathing in dust contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, or after being bitten.

In the UK, hantavirus infections in people are rare. When cases do occur, they are often linked to contact with wild rodents or to travel abroad.

How serious can it be?

Hantavirus disease can range from a mild flu-like illness to a severe, life-threatening infection. The level of seriousness depends on the specific type of hantavirus involved.

Some forms mainly cause kidney problems, while others can lead to serious lung disease. The most severe cases may require hospital treatment and intensive care.

What symptoms should you look out for?

Early symptoms often feel similar to a bad flu. They can include fever, muscle aches, headache, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

As the illness develops, symptoms can become more serious. Trouble breathing, low blood pressure, and reduced kidney function are warning signs that need urgent medical attention.

Who is most at risk?

People who clean sheds, lofts, garages, or outbuildings where rodents have been present may have a higher risk. Farmers, pest control workers, and anyone handling wild rodents are also more exposed.

Travel can matter too, especially in parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas where hantavirus is more common. Risk increases when people are in enclosed spaces with rodent droppings or nests.

Can it be treated?

There is no specific cure for hantavirus, but supportive hospital care can make a big difference. Treatment may include oxygen, fluids, and close monitoring of breathing, blood pressure, and kidney function.

Getting medical help early is important. The sooner symptoms are assessed, the better the chance of preventing complications.

How can you reduce your risk?

Try to avoid stirring up dust in areas that may have rodent droppings. Open windows first, wear gloves, and clean with disinfectant rather than sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings.

Seal gaps in homes and outbuildings, store food securely, and keep bins closed to discourage rodents. If you have a large rodent problem, use a professional pest control service.

When should you seek help?

If you have been exposed to rodents and develop fever, muscle aches, or breathing problems, contact NHS 111 or your GP promptly. Mention the possible rodent exposure so it can be considered.

Call 999 if you have severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or confusion. These can be signs of a medical emergency.