In the United States, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is the most commonly reported form of hantavirus.

It differs somewhat from the hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome commonly known in Korea. HPS is primarily transmitted by rodents such as the Deer Mouse or Cotton Rat, and infection often occurs by inhaling dust contaminated with the droppings, saliva, or urine of these small rodents.

The vast natural environment in the U.S. allows for easy rodent habitation, especially in areas like farms, parks, and rural storage sheds that are not well maintained. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), after the first major outbreak was identified in 1993, a small number of cases have continued to occur each year. Symptoms may start like a common cold (fever, chills, body aches, etc.) and can progress to respiratory distress or decreased lung function, leading to a high fatality rate if diagnosis and treatment are delayed.

Affected Areas
In the U.S., HPS is reported more frequently in the western and southwestern regions, particularly around desert areas, where rodents like the Deer Mouse are abundant. However, this does not mean that other areas are free from outbreaks, but statistically, this region poses a higher risk.

Transmission Routes
– Inhaling dust that has dried rodent droppings (feces, urine) or secretions
– Sweeping or stirring up dust from rodent droppings without a mask, inhaling contaminated air
– Being bitten by a rodent or touching contaminated objects and then touching your mouth or nose without washing your hands

Main Symptoms
– Early: Fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, similar to cold or flu
– Late: Worsening cough, respiratory distress, chest pain, pulmonary edema

Prevention Methods
– Seal gaps and holes in your home to prevent rodent access, and store food in airtight containers
– Wear protective gear such as masks and gloves when working outdoors or cleaning storage areas
– When cleaning rodent droppings, use disinfectant to moisten them instead of a dry cloth or broom, and wipe with paper towels or a damp cloth
– Wash hands thoroughly with soap after cleaning

What to Do If Symptoms Appear
If you experience sudden high fever, headache, and extreme fatigue after working in a dusty environment or cleaning a rodent-infested area, do not take it lightly and seek medical advice. HPS can progress rapidly to respiratory failure if treatment is delayed, so it is important to monitor symptoms closely.

If you are planning a trip to the U.S. or staying long-term, be sure to prepare protective equipment when camping in nature or cleaning long-abandoned storage areas. While the likelihood of Hantavirus infection is not very high, the risks are significant once infected, so taking preventive measures is the best defense.

Today, we briefly learned about Hantavirus infection (HPS) in the U.S. Those who spend a lot of time in natural environments should especially pay attention to prevention guidelines. If you have any questions or want to know more details, feel free to reach out. Health is the top priority!