Why is hantavirus so deadly? It’s not what you may think
The Andes hantavirus is known for its unusual method of causing severe respiratory illness. Despite its high mortality rate, survivors often experience no lasting damage. Ongoing research aims to uncover its mechanisms, potentially leading to new treatments.
- ▪Andes hantavirus has only four proteins but effectively manipulates cells and the immune system.
- ▪The virus can kill up to half of those it infects, yet survivors do not suffer from long-term effects.
- ▪Currently, over 150 individuals are in quarantine following an outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius.
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News Health & Medicine Why is hantavirus so deadly? It’s not what you may think A better understanding of its unusual killing method could point to future treatments Andes hantavirus has only four proteins yet is a master of manipulating cells and the immune system. Learning its secrets may lead to treatments for the deadly disease it causes. Shown is an illustration of a hantavirus particle. quantic69/iStock/Getty Images Plus By Tina Hesman Saey 1 minute ago Share this:Share Share via email (Opens in new window) Email Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit Share on X (Opens in new window) X Print (Opens in new window) Print New World hantaviruses such as Andes virus cause respiratory illness, but they hit differently than common…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Science News.