Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome

Preview

An alarming new disease was first reported in mid-1993, and by late 1994, almost 100 cases had been identified nationwide. Mild prodromal flulike symptoms were followed within days by rapidly progressive respiratory illness and early death. Cooperative efforts of many agencies soon established the cause— a previously unidentified hantavirus. Thus, the disease was named hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Dr Levy describes the outbreak and summarizes features of the syndrome and recommendations on prevention.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

David L. Levy

David L. Levy, DO Dr Levy is a first-year resident at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, West Islip, New York. He will continue with a residency in emergency medicine in July 1995 at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, New York.

Dr Levy's interest in the hantavirus outbreak was piqued by initial media reports coming from the southwestern United States, especially since he planned to be working in a medical clinic on a reservation in the Phoenix area. Once established on the reservation, he was afforded the opportunity to further research this mysterious disease from its “source.”