What You Need to Know About Hantavirus

What You Need to Know About Hantavirus

"Don't Dismiss the Sneeze — Understanding the Rodent Link You May Not Realise"

Dr Kavita Diddi | 3-minute read | May 2026 | Prime Health UAE
Chair, Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee

Co-chair, Infection Control Committee

President, ESCM (Emirates Society of Clinical Microbiology)

Let’s start by understanding what Hantavirus is and why it matters.

Hantavirus is a viral infection carried by certain wild rodents, particularly mice and rats. In the UAE, while rodents such as house mice and brown rats are present, current evidence suggests that the main rodent species known to carry Hantavirus in other regions have not been widely documented here. However, imported rodents or travel to areas with infected populations can still pose a risk. It spreads by breathing in contaminated air containing urine, droppings, or saliva of rodents carrying the virus, or through prolonged close contact with an infected patient. It does not spread through rat bites.

Recently, health authorities, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), reported a small number of Hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship. These cases are linked to the Andes Hantavirus strain. So far, no confirmed cases of Hantavirus have been reported in the UAE or the wider Middle East. While the global risk is low and there is no potential for a pandemic like COVID-19, this situation serves as a reminder to pay attention to this infection.

With that in mind, how does Hantavirus spread from rodents to humans?

• Inhaling dried rodent urine, droppings, or saliva disturbed as dust — the most common route

• Touching dirty surfaces and then touching your face, mouth, or eyes can spread virus.

• Andes Hantavirus specifically — rare human-to-human spread through prolonged, close contact

What does it feel like? Know the symptoms

Symptoms may develop one to eight weeks after exposure, leading many to miss the connection. It typically starts with fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, which can mimic influenza, dengue, or COVID-19. This underscores the importance of knowing your exposure history. Infection can present in forms

Pulmonary ( LUNG)Form (HPS)

• Fever and chills

• Deep muscle aches and fatigue

• Dry cough, shortness of breath

• Can rapidly progress to breathing difficulty

Renal ( Kidney) Form (HFRS)

• High fever and headache

• Back and abdominal pain

• Reduced urine output

• Bleeding and kidney dysfunction

Both forms can become life-threatening if left untreated. Early diagnosis is the key difference between a manageable illness and a serious one. There is no specific drug for Hantavirus, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting vital body functions. Hospital care can include oxygen therapy, careful monitoring, and, in severe cases, intensive care support. The earlier patients receive supportive treatment, the better their chances of recovery.

Who should be most alert to these risks?

In the UAE and wider Middle East, the average city resident is at very low risk for Hantavirus. Most city dwellers are unlikely to come into contact with the rodents that carry this virus. However, certain groups should take extra caution. This includes warehouse and storage workers clearing old stock or dusty areas, cleaning staff in older buildings or labour accommodations, people working in farms, construction sites, or rural settings, and travellers returning from regions with active rodent populations, especially parts of South America, Europe, or Asia where Hantavirus strains are known.

Simple steps to protect yourself

Always wear an N95 mask when cleaning dusty, enclosed, or long-unused spaces — especially if you notice rodent droppings.
Use gloves when handling materials from storage areas and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Wet-mop dusty surfaces with disinfectants rather than sweeping dry — sweeping spreads particles.
Seal gaps in walls, floors, and food storage areas to prevent rodent entry in homes and workplaces
Dispose of rodent nests or droppings using proper Personal Protective Equipment and seal waste in plastic bags before placing them in the bin.

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these

Unexplained high fever, especially with muscle pain, that does not settle within 48 hours
Rapid onset of shortness of breath or a worsening cough
Significantly reduced urine output, back pain, or any unexplained bleeding
Recent travel history involving cruise ships, farms, or rural settings in affected regions

Share your full history with your doctor—including where you have been, what you have handled, and any potential rodent exposure. This information greatly assists with faster, more accurate diagnosis. Early identification of possible cases and appropriate notification to health authorities is important for community safety. If you report symptoms and possible exposure, your doctor may recommend blood or urine tests to help confirm or rule out Hantavirus.

You may be monitored for breathing and kidney function, and your doctor might recommend a hospital stay for observation to ensure safety and proper care. Local health authorities may contact you about recent exposures and offer guidance. Most people find this process simple and supportive, aimed at recovery and community safety.

As a Microbiologist & infection control specialist, I emphasise the importance of awareness. Hantavirus is rare and preventable with precautions. While an alarm isn't necessary, vigilance is key. If you or any of your close associates have been exposed to rodents and develop an unexplained fever or breathing symptoms, seek medical attention promptly for the best outcome.