Reference

Symptoms

Important: This page summarises what official health authorities have published about hantavirus symptoms. It is not a diagnostic tool. If you experience symptoms or believe you were exposed, contact your local health authority or emergency medical services immediately.

Hantaviruses can cause two main clinical syndromes, depending on the virus strain and geographic region. The information below reflects what the originating authorities have published — follow the links to read their full descriptions.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

HPS is primarily associated with hantaviruses found in the Americas, including Sin Nombre virus and Andes virus. According to the CDC, symptoms typically develop one to eight weeks after exposure and progress in phases: an initial period of fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, followed by the rapid onset of coughing and shortness of breath as fluid accumulates in the lungs. The cardiopulmonary phase can deteriorate quickly and requires immediate medical attention.

Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)

HFRS is caused by hantaviruses found primarily in Europe and Asia, including Puumala, Dobrava, Hantaan, and Seoul viruses. According to the ECDC, the disease typically begins with fever, headache, and muscle pain, and can progress through phases involving low blood pressure, reduced kidney function, and in severe cases haemorrhagic manifestations. A milder form known as nephropathia epidemica is commonly caused by Puumala virus in Europe.

Andes virus — current outbreak context

Andes virus is the only hantavirus for which person-to-person transmission has been documented. WHO and ECDC have published specific guidance in the context of the May 2026 cruise-ship cluster.

When to seek medical attention

All three authorities emphasise that early medical care is critical. If you develop fever, muscle aches, or breathing difficulties after possible exposure to rodents or close contact with a confirmed case, seek immediate medical attention and inform the treating physician about the exposure. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides references to official publications for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See our full medical disclaimer.

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