Prelims - Science Hanta Virus | UPSC Updates | Qualify IAS

Hantavirus — Quick Notes

RNA virus; family Hantaviridae; 50+ types

Reservoir: Rodents (urine, feces, saliva aerosols)

Fatality rate up to 40%; no specific antiviral — supportive treatment only

Andes Virus (current outbreak strain)

Only hantavirus known to spread human-to-human ; via close/prolonged contact

Endemic: South America (Argentina, Chile, Uruguay)

Two disease forms:

HPS — Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (lungs)

HFRS — Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (kidneys)

Current News (2026)

Outbreak on Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius; departed Argentina April 1; 3 deaths, 5+ confirmed cases across multiple countries

WHO: "Not the next COVID" — virus does not mutate rapidly