Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is a lung infection caused by viruses found in the saliva, urine, and droppings of some rodents. The illness is rare but can be deadly. Most cases of HCPS in the U.S. are caused by one type of hantavirus found in the deer mouse. People can become infected by: North America has never had a known case of one person spreading the illness to another. And people do not get HCPS from farm animals, pets, or insects. But your pet may bring home an infected rodent. Symptoms usually start 2 to 3 weeks after a person has been exposed to the virus. Early symptoms may include: You quickly will become very sick. Within a few days, you'll start to have more serious symptoms, such as: HCPS is a serious lung problem that can be deadly. Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms, past health, and exposure to rodents. You may have other tests, such as chest X-rays, a complete blood count, and an oxygen saturation test. Your doctor will know for sure that you have HCPS only if you have the signs of HCPS and if tests show that the virus is or has been in your blood or tissues. HCPS requires treatment in a hospital right away, even if the case is mild. You will get treatment to support you through the illness, such as intravenous (I.V.) fluids and medicines. You may need a ventilator to help you breathe. People who survive the illness usually recover quickly. The best way to prevent HCPS is to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings. If you live in or visit an area where the viruses have been found: Current as of: June 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: June 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS)
Condition Basics
What is hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS)?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS)
treated?
How can you prevent it?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: June 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS)