Medical reference

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Stages and Survival

HPS is the severe lung-and-circulation syndrome caused by several hantaviruses in the Americas, including Andes virus. This page explains the timeline, warning signs, treatment, and how the MV Hondius cluster fits the syndrome.

Quick Facts

Window

1-8 weeks

Typical HPS symptom window after rodent exposure

Andes virus

4-42 days

CDC timing for HPS due to Andes virus

Late phase

4-10 days

After initial symptoms, breathing symptoms can appear

Care

Supportive

No specific cure; early ICU-level care matters

HPS Stages

From Flu-Like Illness to Respiratory Distress

Early HPS can look like influenza: fever, fatigue, large-muscle aches, headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

The dangerous stage is the cardiopulmonary phase. A worsening cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, falling blood pressure, and shock require urgent medical care.

Why Andes Virus Changes the Risk Picture

The Person-to-Person Exception

Most hantaviruses are not known for person-to-person spread. Andes virus is the exception, with documented limited spread after close, prolonged contact with a symptomatic person.

That is why MV Hondius contacts are being monitored for 42 days after last possible exposure, even when the general population risk remains low.

Survival and Treatment

Early Recognition Matters

HPS can be deadly, especially once respiratory symptoms begin. There is no specific antiviral cure, so care focuses on oxygen, breathing support, circulation support, and managing complications.

Anyone with known MV Hondius or Andes virus exposure should tell clinicians about that exposure immediately if fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, cough, or breathing changes appear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources