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Hantavirus Cruise Outbreak: Symptoms, Spread, and the MV Hondius Tragedy

How the Virus Spreads Through Rodents

Despite the rare human transmission, rodents remain the primary viral vector.

Infected rodents constantly shed the virus in their urine, feces, and saliva. The virus survives in these droppings for extended periods.

The Aerosolization Process

Humans rarely catch the virus from a direct rodent bite. Instead, they inhale the virus through a dangerous process called aerosolization.

Dried rodent droppings turn into a fine, invisible dust over time. A person sweeping a floor easily kicks this toxic dust into the air. The person then breathes the viral particles directly into their vulnerable lungs.

You can also catch the virus by touching a contaminated surface. You simply transfer the virus when you touch your nose or mouth afterward.

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