HANTAAN VIRUS Meaning and
Definition
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Hantaan virus is an RNA virus that belongs to the genus Hantavirus, family Hantaviridae. It is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents (particularly the striped field mouse and the black rat), as well as via inhalation of aerosolized rodent excreta or nesting materials. The virus was first identified in 1978 in the Hantaan River area of South Korea, which is where it gets its name.
Hantaan virus is known to cause a severe and often fatal illness called Hantavirus disease or Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS typically manifests with flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. As the disease progresses, it can lead to respiratory distress and, in some cases, acute respiratory failure. Hantaan virus is considered one of the primary causative agents of HPS in humans, which is characterized by a significant mortality rate.
The geographic distribution of Hantaan virus includes areas of East Asia, particularly China and Korea. While cases outside of these regions are relatively rare, the virus has been detected in other parts of the world, including Europe and the United States. Preventive measures such as rodent control and avoiding contact with rodent excreta are essential for reducing the risk of Hantaan virus infection. There is currently no specific treatment for HPS caused by Hantaan virus, and supportive care remains the mainstay of management for affected individuals.
Common Misspellings for HANTAAN VIRUS
- gantaan virus
- bantaan virus
- nantaan virus
- jantaan virus
- uantaan virus
- yantaan virus
- hzntaan virus
- hsntaan virus
- hwntaan virus
- hqntaan virus
- habtaan virus
- hamtaan virus
- hajtaan virus
- hahtaan virus
- hanraan virus
- hanfaan virus
- hangaan virus
- hanyaan virus
- han6aan virus
- han5aan virus
Etymology of HANTAAN VIRUS
The word "Hantaan" is derived from the Hantan River, which is located in South Korea. The virus was first identified and isolated in 1978 during an outbreak of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Hantan River area. Hence, the virus was named after the location where it was discovered.
