Andes Virus (Hantavirus)
Andes virus is a type of hantavirus found primarily in South America, especially Argentina and Chile. It is notable because it is one of the few hantaviruses known to spread from person to person, although it is usually limited to people who have close contact with the ill person.
What to know:
- Most infections occur through inhalation of virus particles from aerosolized rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
- Unlike most hantaviruses, the Andes virus is unique in its ability to spread from person to person. Transmission typically occurs through close contact, such as caring for someone who is infected or engaging in intimate contact. Spread is generally limited to individuals with prolonged or direct exposure, including physical contact, extended time spent in enclosed spaces, or contact with an infected person’s saliva, bodily fluids, or respiratory secretions.
- Andes virus may cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a medical emergency with a high fatality rate.
- Andes virus is closely monitored by public health authorities because of its severity and its rare ability to spread person to person, which distinguishes it from most other hantaviruses.
- Early symptoms can look like flu and include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Muscle ache/back pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs and symptoms of infection typically appear 1 to 6 weeks after exposure, though this can vary.