Hantavirus outbreak: Who is most at risk of catching the deadly virus?

(NEXSTAR) – While hantavirus respiratory infections may still be rare in the U.S., they can be incredibly deadly. 

The virus, which has been around for hundreds of years, received renewed attention last year when it was blamed for the death of Betsy Arakawa, the wife of actor Gene Hackman. In recent weeks, it’s caused even more concern following an outbreak among passengers and crew on a cruise ship. 

The strain of hantavirus involved in the recent outbreak on the MV Hondius ship is called Andes virus. It can cause HPS, or hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. About 38% of people who develop respiratory symptoms die, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Hantaviruses don’t typically spread person to person, but it appears the Andes virus strain can. 

It’s more typical for the virus to spread through rodents, most commonly through the droppings, urine and saliva of rats and mice. It can also spread through scratches and bites, according to the CDC. 

The most common type of rodent to carry the virus in the U.S. is the deer mouse. 

Because rodents are the most common vector, people who come into frequent contact with them are at highest risk of catching a hantavirus. People may be exposed when cleaning enclosed spaces with little ventilation, like cabins or sheds, or when otherwise exploring areas with mouse droppings.

However, once someone is infected with the........

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