Laboratory diagnosis of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Temporary recommendations

Hantaviruses belong to the genus Orthohantavirus (family Hantaviridae), which includes 38 species and 60 different viruses. Hantaviruses are divided into two main groups: Old World hantaviruses, distributed primarily in Africa, Asia, and Europe; and New World hantaviruses, distributed in the Americas. New World hantaviruses cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), while Old World hantaviruses cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). 

This document presents temporary recommendations for the laboratory diagnosis of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the Americas. It describes the general characteristics of hantaviruses, including their classification, structure, and modes of transmission, highlighting that human infection is primarily zoonotic, associated with exposure to rodent excreta, although human-to-human transmission is possible, particularly in the case of the Andes virus. 

The document details laboratory biosafety considerations, emphasizing local risk assessment, the use of personal protective equipment, and the safe handling of potentially infectious samples. It also describes the main diagnostic methods, including molecular techniques (RT-PCR) for early virus detection and serological tests for antibody identification, as well as the interpretation of results according to the stage of infection. Aspects such as sample handling, storage, and transport, post-mortem diagnosis, and the use of genomic sequencing to characterize circulating strains and support epidemiological surveillance are also addressed. 

Finally, the document highlights the importance of coordination with PAHO/WHO reference laboratories and collaborating centers to strengthen regional capacity for hantavirus diagnosis and response.