Medications
There is no known medication that effectively reduces the risk of dying from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) or shortens the length of illness in people who have HPS.
People who see a health professional for symptoms of fever and muscles aches and are suspected to have HPS should be given broad-spectrum antibiotics until it is known for sure whether HPS is the cause of the illness.
Studies have not yet proved the benefits of using intravenous (IV) ribavirin to treat suspected cases of HPS, and this treatment is not recommended.
Pierre Rollin, MD - Center's for Disease Control and Prevention
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
