Recognising hantavirus symptoms
Hantaviruses cause two distinct clinical syndromes depending on the strain: haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Eurasia and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in the Americas. Incubation typically lasts 1–6 weeks.
Early symptoms (days 1–5)
- Sudden high fever (39–40 °C / 102–104 °F)
- Severe headache and chills
- Muscle pain, especially in the back and thighs
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
- Conjunctival redness, light sensitivity
HFRS – kidney symptoms (from day 5)
Caused by Puumala, Dobrava, Hantaan and Seoul viruses. In Germany, Puumala (carried by the bank vole) is the most common.
- Acute kidney injury, decreased urine output
- Hypotension, shock
- Petechiae (small skin haemorrhages)
- Elevated creatinine and urea levels
HPS – pulmonary symptoms
Caused by Sin Nombre virus (North America) and Andes virus (South America). Case fatality up to 40 %.
- Dry cough, rapidly worsening shortness of breath
- Pulmonary oedema with falling oxygen saturation
- Tachycardia, low blood pressure
- Often requires intensive care
When to see a doctor
Anyone who develops sudden high fever, breathing difficulty or markedly reduced urine output after recent exposure to rodents or their droppings (e.g. cleaning sheds, attics or cabins) should seek medical care immediately and mention the suspicion.
Sources: RKI, WHO, ECDC, CDC. This page does not replace professional medical advice.