Rare Andes Hantavirus Strain Sparks Concern: Should You Worry About Human-to-Human Spread?
The Andes strain of hantavirus, found primarily in Argentina and Chile, is a rare form of the virus capable of limited human-to-human transmission, unlike most hantaviruses that spread from rodents to humans. The virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious condition with a high mortality rate estimated at around 30 to 40 per cent in some outbreaks.
The Andes virus is a rare strain of hantavirus that can spread between people, unlike most hantaviruses. It is primarily found in parts of South America, particularly Argentina and Chile. The virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious condition that affects the lungs and breathing. In 2018, nearly three dozen people in Argentina fell ill, with 11 eventual fatalities. The Andes strain spreads through close contact with infected individuals, particularly during the early stages of illness or through exposure to bodily fluids. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, and nausea. Health authorities have said there is currently no reason for widespread panic as transmission between humans is limited and requires close contact.
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