Hantaviruses in the Americas and Their Role as Emerging Pathogens
Author Information
Author(s): Hjelle Brian, Torres-Pérez Fernando
Primary Institution: University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
Hypothesis
What factors influence the emergence and pathogenicity of hantaviruses in the Americas?
Conclusion
Hantaviruses have emerged as significant pathogens in the Americas, with high case-fatality ratios and complex ecological dynamics influencing their transmission.
Supporting Evidence
- Hantaviruses cause hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) with case-fatality ratios between 30% and 40%.
- Over 40 hantaviral genotypes have been described, with many emerging since 1993.
- Ecological disturbances, including climate change, may increase human cases of HCPS.
Takeaway
Hantaviruses are viruses that can make people very sick, and they come from rodents. When people get too close to these rodents or their droppings, they can catch the virus.
Methodology
The review discusses the ecological and molecular features of hantaviruses, their transmission dynamics, and the associated human diseases.
Limitations
The review does not provide new experimental data but synthesizes existing literature on hantaviruses.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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