Hantavirus deaths on cruise ship highlight dangers of rodent-borne disease
“Although there is no cure for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, it is important to seek medical care when short of breath, because the patient may need support from a mechanical ventilator or extra-corporal membrane oxygenator (ECMO) machine to deliver enough oxygen to their body,” Dr. Sonja Bartolome, an expert in pulmonology and critical care at UT Southwestern Medical Center, previously told Fox News Digital.
“Even with medical care, 30% to 40% of people who develop hantavirus pulmonary syndrome will not survive.”
Prevention of hantavirus
Bartolome offered some tips for preventing this rare infection.
“It can be prevented by keeping wild mice and rats out of your home, cleaning up rodent waste quickly when encountered, and staying away from areas infested with rodents,” she told Fox News Digital.
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“When cleaning up rodent waste, it is important to wear rubber gloves, use disinfectant and wash your hands afterward.”
Fox News’ Greg Wehner contributed reporting.
Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.
Article source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/hantavirus-deaths-cruise-ship-highlight-dangers-rodent-borne-disease