How do mice transmit hemorrhagic fever? - briefly
Mice harbor hemorrhagic fever viruses and release them in urine, feces, and saliva; humans become infected through direct contact with contaminated material, inhalation of aerosolized particles, or ingestion of contaminated food and water. The virus then spreads systemically, causing the characteristic severe bleeding disorder.
How do mice transmit hemorrhagic fever? - in detail
Mice act as natural reservoirs for several hantaviruses that cause hemorrhagic fever syndromes in humans. The virus persists in the rodent’s kidneys, lungs, and salivary glands, allowing continuous shedding in urine, feces, and saliva. Transmission to people occurs through the following mechanisms:
- Inhalation of aerosolized excreta – dried urine or fecal particles become airborne during cleaning, sweeping, or bedding disturbance; inhaled virions reach the respiratory tract.
- Direct contact with contaminated surfaces – skin abrasion or mucous‑membrane exposure to fresh urine, feces, or saliva transfers virus to the host.
- Bite wounds – aggressive encounters or defensive bites introduce virus directly into subcutaneous tissue.
- Contaminated food or water – ingestion of grain, fruits, or water tainted with rodent secretions provides an oral route.
- Ectoparasite mediation – fleas, mites, or ticks feeding on infected mice may carry virions to humans, although this route is less documented than aerosol transmission.
Virus replication in the mouse is typically asymptomatic, maintaining high viral loads without overt disease, which facilitates persistent environmental contamination. Seasonal peaks in rodent population density and breeding cycles increase excretion rates, raising the risk of human exposure during autumn and winter when indoor activities concentrate contact with contaminated materials.
Laboratory studies demonstrate that viral RNA remains detectable in dried excreta for weeks, confirming the stability of hantaviruses outside the host. Preventive measures focus on eliminating rodent infestations, sealing food storage, using protective equipment when cleaning rodent‑infested areas, and employing wet cleaning methods to suppress aerosol formation.