CDC Reports 883 Cumulative HPS Cases in United States Since 1993

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its surveillance data on hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in the United States. Since the first recognized cases in the Four Corners region in 1993, a total of 883 cases have been reported across 36 states.\n\nThe Sin Nombre virus remains the primary cause of HPS in North America. Most cases occur in rural areas of the western United States, with New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and California reporting the highest numbers.\n\nThe case fatality rate for HPS in the United States is approximately 36%. There is no specific treatment or vaccine for hantavirus infection, making prevention the most critical intervention. Early recognition of symptoms and prompt supportive care in intensive care settings can improve outcomes.\n\nThe CDC recommends sealing holes in homes to prevent rodent entry, using traps to reduce rodent populations, and cleaning up rodent droppings safely using proper respiratory protection.