hantavirus

Meaning

Noun

• Any virus of the genus Hantavirus (genus), transmitted by aerosolized rodent excreta or rodent bites, especially the deer mouse. Hantaviruses cause Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS): incubation lasts for 1–5 weeks, sickness begins with fever and muscle aches, followed by shortness of breath and coughing.

Origin

• From the name of the Hantan River in South Korea, via the genus name Hantavirus.