First reported case of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in Oklahoma

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a condition of rapidly progressive pulmonary failure with a case-fatality rate of almost 50 percent. Rodents serve as the reservoir for hantaviruses and human infection occurs primarily via aerosolized virus in rodent excreta. The rodent reservoir for the disease is widespread across Oklahoma and the first case of HPS has recently been confirmed in an Oklahoma resident. Physicians should suspect HPS in a previously healthy person who develops a febrile illness and respiratory insufficiency and has potentially been exposed to the virus. Common laboratory findings include a left-shifted neutrophilic leukocytosis, elevated hematocrit and thrombocytopenia. Therapy is supportive. If HPS is suspected, the patient should be immediately transferred to a facility that can provide aggressive supportive care.