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Update on hantavirus in Oklahoma: are we missing cases?
1Communicable Disease Division, Oklahoma State Department of Health, 1000 NE 10 St., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73117-1299, USA.
The Journal of the Oklahoma State Medical Association
|June 15, 2007
Summary
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) poses a significant risk in Oklahoma, particularly in grasslands. This study highlights increased respiratory distress deaths in these areas, suggesting a need for greater physician awareness and reporting of HPS cases.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) emerged in 1993, with 396 US cases reported by July 2005.
- Oklahoma reported 50 cases, with this study detailing the second confirmed HPS case in the state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of hantaviruses in Oklahoma.
- To assess the risk of HPS in different geographical areas of Oklahoma.
- To encourage physician collaboration in HPS detection and reporting.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Oklahoma death certificates (1999-2003) for potential unreported HPS cases.
- Rodent testing to identify hantavirus presence across Oklahoma.
- Comparison of mortality rates for respiratory distress in grassland versus non-grassland areas.
Main Results:
- Hantavirus presence confirmed across Oklahoma through rodent testing.
- Significantly higher death rates from acute respiratory distress syndrome (69%) and unspecified respiratory failure (3x) in young adults (15-49 years) in Oklahoma's grasslands.
- Sin Nombre virus detected in both grassland and non-grassland areas.
Conclusions:
- Oklahoma grasslands represent the highest risk area for HPS.
- Hantaviruses, including Sin Nombre virus, are endemic throughout Oklahoma.
- Enhanced physician awareness and reporting are crucial for HPS management and prevention.
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