What health risk is associated with hantavirus?

The health risk associated with hantavirus primarily arises from exposure to rodent urine and feces. Hantavirus is spread when a person inhales aerosolized particles that contain the virus, which can happen when the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected rodents are disturbed. This is particularly a concern in enclosed spaces where rodent activity has occurred, such as sheds, cabins, or attics. When cleaning these areas without proper precautions, individuals may inadvertently release hantavirus particles into the air.

Hantavirus can lead to severe respiratory diseases, most notably hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which can result in serious health issues and in some cases, can be fatal. Understanding this transmission route underscores the importance of proper sanitation and safety measures when dealing with environments that may harbor rodent infestations.

The other choices, while they may relate to various health risks, do not directly pertain to the specific health implications associated with hantavirus.