Can immunological assay diagnose hantavirus?

Question

Hello doctor,

I recently cleaned under an oven where a mouse had nested. I observed no dead or live mice. All urine and feces appeared very old, but I am uncertain of their exact age. I am also unsure of how long the house has been vacant. I began by sweeping the area. Upon realizing it was feces and not bugs, I applied bleach to the entire area and then mopped it until it was thoroughly cleaned. I promptly disposed of the cleaning tools and feces. Although I did not have a face covering, I wore gloves. Am I at risk for hantavirus, and if so, how can I ensure that the doctors treat me for it rather than dismissing my symptoms as flu?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Hantavirus infection is transmitted by a wide variety of wild mice. It manifests with symptoms similar to the flu, including chest heaviness. Other symptoms include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, particularly in the large muscle groups such as the thighs, hips, back, and sometimes shoulders, persisting for up to five weeks. Therefore, hantavirus infection initially presents with flu-like symptoms. Diagnosis is achieved through serial chest X-rays combined with a history of exposure and flu-like symptoms. Confirmation of the diagnosis is through a blood test involving an immunological assay conducted in specialized laboratories.

I hope you find this information helpful. Please let me know if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Can immunological assay diagnose hantavirus?

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