Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in Texas: An update covering years 1993 through 2016

Abstract

Background: Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome continues to occur sporadically in Texas.Rivers and coworkers published a summary of cases identified between 1993 and 2006. Thisreport updates the information on Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome cases identified between 2007and 2016 to determine whether or not there are differences in clinical presentation or outcomes.Methods: The Texas Department of State Health Services collects information on the Hantaviruspulmonary syndrome using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Special PathogensBranch case report form (OMB No.0920-0090). This form collects demographic information, patientexposure information, timeline, clinical information, laboratory tests, and outcomes.Results: This report summarizes information from the Texas Department of State HealthServices on 45 cases with Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome reported between 1993 and2016. Most patients were men and were non-Hispanic white or Hispanics. Laboratory testsrevealed leukocytosis, an increased percentage of neutrophil bands, hemoconcentration,thrombocytopenia, and variable acute kidney injury. The case fatality rate was 31%. Since2007, the case fatality rate has decreased. The cases remain clustered in the Northwest Texas(Public Health Region 1).Summary: Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome continues to occur sporadically in Texas. Theclinical presentation has not changed since 1993, but outcomes appear to be improving. Publichealth efforts need to focus on public education to reduce the risk of exposure.