Hantaviruses, which are primarily spread by rodents’ body fluids and excrement, are most commonly contracted through inhaling contaminated air and can cause HPS. Some strains, such as the Andes virus, can also be transmitted person-to-person. In the U.S., the Sin Nombre virus, carried by deer mice, is a leading cause of HPS, though other rodents like white-footed mice and cotton rats can also be carriers. The recent death of Betsy Arakawa from HPS underscores the importance for clinicians to stay informed about the risks, symptoms, and treatment challenges of this rare but serious disease.
