Hantavirus Infections - Description

Hantaviruses live in rodents, such as rats and mice, without causing any symptoms. The viruses can be transmitted (passed on to) humans by way of urine, feces, or saliva from the rodents. Five different kinds of hantaviruses have been discovered so far. Each is found in a different geographical region and in different kinds of rodents. As an example, the virus known as the hantaan virus is carried by the striped field mouse. It is found primarily in Korea, China, East Russia, and the Balkans. This virus causes HFRS. Another type of hantavirus is called the Sin Nombre virus. It is carried by the deer mouse and found primarily in southwestern United States and causes severe cases of HPS.