Symptoms & Disease Stages

Hantavirus causes two main diseases. Symptoms progress through distinct stages. Early recognition saves lives.

If you suspect hantavirus infection, seek emergency medical care immediately. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes.

HFRS — Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome

Mortality: 1-15% depending on virus type. Common in Asia and Europe.

Stage 1

Febrile Phase (Day 1-5)

Symptoms: Sudden high fever (38-40°C), severe headache, myalgia, blurred vision, facial flushing, petechiae

Treatment: Acetaminophen for fever, fluid replacement, bed rest

Warning: Do NOT use aspirin or ibuprofen (may worsen bleeding)

Stage 2

Hypotensive Phase (Day 5-7)

Symptoms: Sudden blood pressure drop, tachycardia, nausea/vomiting, potential shock

Treatment: Hospitalization required — IV fluids, vasopressors, close blood pressure monitoring

Stage 3

Oliguric Phase (Day 7-14)

Symptoms: Severely reduced urine output, edema, hypertension rebound, bleeding tendency

Treatment: ICU management — dialysis if needed, fluid restriction, electrolyte monitoring

Stage 4

Diuretic Phase (Day 14-28)

Symptoms: Urine output recovers (3-6L/day), dehydration risk

Treatment: Adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement, monitor kidney function recovery

Stage 5

Convalescent Phase (Weeks to Months)

Symptoms: Fatigue, residual lower back pain

Treatment: Gradual return to activity, regular kidney function check-ups

HPS — Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome

Mortality: 30-40%. Found in the Americas. Rapid progression to respiratory failure.

Stage 1

Prodromal Phase (Day 1-5)

Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches (thighs, hips, shoulders), headache, nausea, diarrhea

Treatment: Fluid replacement, rest. Hard to distinguish from flu.

If you have rodent contact history — seek medical attention immediately

Stage 2

Cardiopulmonary Phase (Day 5-7)

Symptoms: Sudden shortness of breath, cough, pulmonary edema, hypotension, decreased cardiac output

Treatment: Emergency ICU — mechanical ventilation, ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), vasopressors. Fatality rate 30-40%.

Stage 3

Diuretic Phase (Post-survival)

Symptoms: Pulmonary edema resolves, large urine output, hemodynamic improvement

Treatment: Continued monitoring, fluid replacement, gradual withdrawal of respiratory support

Stage 4

Convalescent Phase (Weeks to Months)

Symptoms: Fatigue, slow pulmonary function recovery

Treatment: Pulmonary rehabilitation, regular follow-up

Sources: CDC Hantavirus Guidelines, WHO Disease Information, peer-reviewed medical literature.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.