Hantavirus Infections: A Review of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis,Treatment, and Vaccine Developments

Abstract

Hantaviruses are zoonotic RNA viruses belonging to the family Hantaviridae, primarily transmitted to humans through rodent reservoirs. These viruses cause two major clinical syndromes in humans: hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). Due to their high mortality rates, potential for global spread, and the lack of specific antiviral therapies, hantaviruses are regarded as significant public health threats. In recent years, advances in molecular virology, immunology, structural biology, and vaccine technologies have provided important insights into hantavirus pathogenesis and host–virus interactions. Current research has increasingly focused on host-targeted antiviral strategies, TFEB-mediated lysosomal degradation mechanisms, monoclonal antibody therapies, and mRNA-based vaccine platforms. In addition, advanced molecular diagnostic methods and metagenomic surveillance systems have improved opportunities for early diagnosis. This review comprehensively summarizes the current literature regarding the epidemiology, virology, pathogenesis, immune responses, clinical manifestations