90-Second Read: Ebola and Hantavirus can start like the flu but turn deadly fast

Ebola virus disease and Hantavirus have attracted renewed attention in recent weeks because of the serious risks they pose to public health. Each year, approximately 4 to 5 cases are confirmed and reported to public health authorities. The current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo involves Bundibugyo ebolavirus, which has a reported fatality rate of 30% to 50%. Hantavirus, often linked to rodents, can cause severe heart and lung complications and has no specific treatment or vaccine, while certain strains can even spread between people.

Different Hantavirus strains can cause different forms of illness. In North and South America, including the Andes virus that has recently been in the news, infections can lead to Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome. In Europe and Asia, Hantaviruses are more commonly associated with hemorrhagic fever and kidney dysfunction. Recent articles published in CMAJ ( Canadian Medical Association Journal ) highlight key information about these diseases for healthcare professionals.

Although they are very different diseases, both can begin with similar symptoms and require strict infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures to limit the risk of transmission. Hantavirus Treatment and Infection Control There is currently no approved antiviral medication or vaccine specifically for Hantavirus. Although Ebola is often associated with bleeding, fewer than half of patients develop hemorrhagic symptoms. People who develop symptoms and have possible exposure risks should be evaluated and tested.

Three major Ebola viruses are known to infect humans, and researchers believe fruit bats are the natural source. This includes travelers who have recently visited countries experiencing Ebola virus disease outbreaks, as well as people who have had close contact with infected individuals or with bats, primates, or game animals from affected regions. Advances and Limitations in Ebola Treatment Suspected Ebola cases require rigorous infection prevention and control procedures.