HANTAVIRUS PULMONARY SYNDROME By : Delane, Kassidee and Laryssa

Causes of HPS  This disease is caused by the direct contact or inhalation of urine, droppings or saliva of an infected rodent.  You are more susceptible to this disease if you live or work in rodent infested areas.  HPS is not communicable between humans or animals. This disease is purely environmental.

Affected Organs  HPS primarily attacks the lungs.  It infects the walls of capillaries, making them leak and flood the lungs with fluid.  The fluid in the lungs makes breathing very difficult.

Symptoms  Symptoms may seem similar to a severe cold or flu.  They may develop1 to 5 weeks after exposure.  Early symptoms: fatigue, fever, and muscle aches.  Later symptoms: coughing, shortness of breath, and severe breathing problems.  Other symptoms include headaches, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

How common is HPS ?  RARE!  In 2007, there were 465 reported cases in the USA, 35% of them were fatale.

Treatment or Cure  There is no specific treatment for HPS however, cases are treated in the intensive care unit with oxygen therapy.  There is no known cure!

Sources  Medscape reference Written by Dr. Burke A Cunha, MD at the University of New York School of Medicine 54 different doctors and theses were consulted by the authors regarding this disease  Alberta Health and Wellness This is a Government of Alberta website Written in conjunction with Health Link Alberta and Health Canada