What Is Microbiology - Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome

​Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome 

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome may present with influenza like prodromal phase which consists of fever, headache, cough, myalgia and gastrointestinal disturbance. 

The disease may later progress into pulmonary edema, hypotension, dyspnea and thrombocytopenia. Patient may also suffer from bilateral pleural effusion.

Hantavirus is detected by polymerase chain reaction of viral DNA, serology analysis of the hantavirus IgG and IgM and immunohistochemistry for hantavirus antigen.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is caused by hantavirus which is a family member of bunyavirus. Hantavirus will multiply in the endothelial cells of the pulmonary. There will be infiltration of the mononuclear cells. 

Hantavirus pulmonary disease is a form of viral zoonosis which is transmitted from infected rodent excreta ( aerosol inhalation). Deer mouse is the rodent reservoir. 

We need to avoid any close contact with infected deer mouse and the excreta. The patient may require intensive care treatment which may include mechanical ventilation.