06/05/2026
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome has a 35% case fatality rate — and most clinicians will only see it once or twice in a career.
That makes early recognition everything.
The diagnostic window is narrow. Initial symptoms — fever, fatigue, myalgia — are indistinguishable from influenza. By the time cardiopulmonary compromise begins, the margin for intervention has already narrowed significantly.
Key clinical considerations for providers:
→ Order IgM serology at first suspicion — don't wait for respiratory deterioration
→ HPS is a nationally notifiable condition — state health departments must be contacted immediately
→ Sin Nombre virus accounts for the majority of U.S. cases; risk is concentrated in the western and southwestern states
→ Occupational and environmental exposure history is critical — rodent contact is the primary transmission route
Our latest clinical resource breaks down the full diagnostic workup, lab testing protocol, and what to include in your differential.
Link in comments ↓
