11 Ways To Prevent And Treat Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome

9. Identify and Mitigate High-Risk Scenarios

Awareness of specific situations that increase HPS risk allows for targeted prevention. Activities like cleaning seldom-used buildings (cabins, sheds, barns), disturbing rodent nests or droppings during agricultural work, construction, or utility work, and even camping or hiking in rodent-infested habitats pose higher risks. If engaging in these activities, be extra vigilant about using PPE, ventilating spaces, and avoiding actions that stir up dust (like sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings). Knowing the risks allows you to take appropriate precautions proactively.

10. Careful Fluid Management in Hospital Care

While breathing support (#1) and ECMO (#2) address severe respiratory failure, managing the patient's fluid balance carefully is critical throughout HPS treatment. Doctors aim to provide enough fluids to support blood pressure and organ function without overloading the already compromised lungs, which can worsen fluid accumulation (pulmonary edema). This delicate balance often requires intensive monitoring in the ICU, using medications that support blood pressure (vasopressors) and sometimes diuretics to help remove excess fluid, tailored precisely to the patient's condition moment by moment.