Understanding Hantavirus
We must examine the virus itself to understand this medical emergency.
Hantaviruses belong to the diverse Bunyavirales order of viruses. These pathogens cause extremely severe respiratory and hemorrhagic diseases in humans.
The History of the Virus
Scientists first identified this unique virus family in Asia. Researchers isolated the original strain near the Hantaan River in Korea.
The virus gained massive international attention in the United States in 1993. A terrifying outbreak struck the Four Corners region of the American Southwest.
The Four Corners Outbreak
The 1993 outbreak emerged after a period of intense drought and heavy rain. This specific weather cycle caused local deer mice populations to explode.
The virus suddenly killed several young, healthy adults in the region. The sudden deaths baffled local doctors and medical examiners completely.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched a massive investigation. They eventually identified a brand new strain of Hantavirus called Sin Nombre.
...[ Continue to next page ]
Share This Post
