Treatment and prognosis

No specific antiviral treatment

Currently, there is no approved antiviral drug or vaccine for hantavirus infection in humans.

Supportive care

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting organ function:

• Oxygen therapy — for breathing difficulties
• Fluid management — to maintain blood pressure and kidney function
• Dialysis — if kidney failure occurs (HFRS)
• ECMO — in severe HPS cases with respiratory failure
• Intensive care monitoring — critical for severe cases

Prognosis

• HPS: About 38% fatality rate; survival depends on early hospitalization
• HFRS: Generally lower fatality (1–15%); mild cases may recover fully
• Early medical attention dramatically improves outcomes

What to do if exposed

If you think you were exposed to rodents and develop flu-like symptoms:

1. Seek medical attention immediately
2. Tell your doctor about the rodent exposure
3. Monitor symptoms closely for breathing difficulties

Sources

• CDC - Treatment
• WHO - Fact Sheet