
Hantavirus is a group of viruses spread by rodents, causing severe respiratory illness (Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome or HPS) or kidney disease, with infection occurring through inhaling aerosolized urine, droppings, or saliva. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, progressing to shortness of breath and fluid in the lungs in severe cases, requiring early medical care, often with supportive measures like oxygen therapy.