what are the symptoms of hantavirus

Hantavirus symptoms usually start 1 to 8 weeks after exposure and can begin like a flu-like illness.

Early symptoms

• Fever
• Muscle aches, often in the back, thighs, hips, or shoulders
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Chills
• Dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea

Later / severe symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Chest tightness
• Rapid breathing or worsening trouble breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Shock

There are two main hantavirus illnesses:

• Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS): starts with flu-like symptoms, then can rapidly progress to severe lung problems and breathing failure.
• Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS): more common in some parts of the world; can cause fever, low blood pressure, and kidney problems such as decreased urination, flank pain, or swelling.

When to get urgent help

Seek emergency care right away if you have possible rodent exposure and develop:

• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Severe weakness or dizziness
• Fainting
• Blue lips or worsening shortness of breath

If you think you may have been exposed to rodents or their droppings, it’s important to contact a clinician promptly, because early symptoms can look like a common viral illness but can worsen quickly.