Which organ is primarily affected by the hantavirus?

The primary organ affected by hantavirus is the lungs. Hantaviruses are transmitted to humans through contact with the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected rodents, especially deer mice. Once the virus enters the human body, it can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which is characterized by severe respiratory issues.

In HPS, the virus causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing and a reduction in oxygen supply to the body. This is a critical aspect of the disease, as it can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention. The lung involvement is a distinctive feature of hantavirus infections, making it essential for healthcare providers to recognize the symptoms—such as cough, shortness of breath, and other respiratory distress signs—associated with this condition. Understanding the respiratory impact of hantavirus helps in timely diagnosis and management of the disease, particularly in individuals who may have been exposed to rodent environments.