Frequently asked questions
Answers to the key questions about hantaviruses and our platform.
About hantavirus
How is hantavirus transmitted?+
Mainly through inhalation of virus-laden aerosols from rodent urine, feces or saliva. Human-to-human transmission is very rare and has been documented almost exclusively for Andes virus in South America.
How long is the incubation period?+
Typically 14–28 days, range 5–60 days. Have suspicious symptoms after possible exposure medically clarified for at least 6 weeks.
Is there a vaccine?+
Inactivated vaccines against Hantaan/Seoul are licensed in China and South Korea. In the EU and USA, no vaccine is currently available.
How can I protect myself?+
Ventilate rooms with mouse infestation before cleaning, never sweep dry, use protective masks (FFP2/3) and gloves, wet-wipe with disinfectant. Store food and pet feed rodent-proof.
How deadly is hantavirus?+
Highly dependent on virus type. Puumala (Europe) has lethality below 1%. Dobrava 5–15%. Sin Nombre and Andes (Americas, HPS) range 30–40%.
Which countries are particularly affected?+
In Europe: Finland, Sweden, Germany, France, Russia, Balkan countries. In Asia: South Korea, China, Russian Far East. In the Americas: Argentina, Chile, USA (Four Corners), Brazil, Panama.
About Hantamap
Where do we get the data from?+
WHO Disease Outbreak News, ECDC, US CDC NNDSS, PAHO, ProMED-mail, plus validated Google News feeds in six languages. Every report includes the original source link.
How current are the signals on the map?+
Our pipeline runs every 60 minutes. New official bulletins typically appear on the map within an hour of publication.
Is Hantamap free?+
Yes. Map, newsletter and source coverage are permanently free. Pulse Pro with real-time alerts and API access launches later as a paid premium offering.
Can I use Hantamap data in my application?+
Yes, a public API is in preparation. Researchers and newsrooms get free access. Reach out via the contact form.