[10:46 PM, 5/6/2026] Felipe Pérez Martí:
https://x.com/i/status/2052100735462953359[10:48 PM, 5/6/2026] Felipe Pérez Martí: Hantavirus symptoms typically appear 1–8 weeks after exposure (often from inhaling dust with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva). There are two main syndromes: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), common in the Americas, and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), more common in Europe and Asia.
cdc.govEarly Symptoms (Prodromal Phase) — Flu-like and Non-SpecificThese usually last a few days and can mimic the flu, COVID, or other viral illnesses:Fatigue
Fever and chills
Muscle aches (myalgia), especially severe in large muscle groups like thighs, hips, back, and shoulders
Headache
Dizziness
About half of HPS patients also experience:Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
Sometimes joint pain or mild respiratory symptoms early on
Note: No runny nose or sore throat is typical, which can help differentiate it from common colds or flu.
cdc.govLater Symptoms (Cardiopulmonary Phase for HPS)4–10 days after early symptoms begin, it can progress rapidly:Cough and shortness of breath
Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
Low blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and potential shock
Severe respiratory distress, often requiring ICU care, mechanical ventilation, or ECMO
HPS has a high mortality rate (around 35–40% in the U.S.), with death often occurring within days of respiratory symptoms starting.
mayoclinic.orgSymptoms of HFRS (Old World Hantaviruses)Sudden intense headache, back/abdominal pain, fever, nausea, blurred vision
Flushing of the face, red eyes, or rash
Later: Low blood pressure, bleeding (hemorrhagic signs like petechiae), and acute kidney failure
Mortality varies (1–15%) depending on the strain.
cdc.govKey PointsSeek immediate medical care if you develop fever + muscle aches + shortness of breath after possible rodent exposure (e.g., cleaning sheds, cabins, or areas with mice/deer mice droppings). Tell the doctor about any rodent contact.
dshs.texas.govDiagnosis often involves blood tests (serology or PCR), as early symptoms are non-specific.
No specific antiviral treatment exists; care is supportive (fluid management, oxygen, etc.).
Prevention focuses on avoiding rodent contact and proper cleaning (wet methods, masks, gloves).
Early symptoms are easy to miss or confuse with other illnesses, so rapid progression to breathing problems is the red flag. If this relates to the Mary Bowden post you shared, note that while she suggested ivermectin based on general antiviral mechanisms, there are no clinical trials or approved uses of ivermectin for hantavirus—standard medical sources (CDC, Mayo Clinic) do not recommend it. Always consult a doctor for personal health concerns.