Hantaviruses are typically carried by which animals?

• A. Bats
• B. Rodents
• C. Birds
• D. Reptiles

Answer: (B)

Hantaviruses are typically carried by rodents, which serve as the natural reservoirs. Infected rodents shed the virus in urine, saliva, and feces, and humans can become infected by inhaling aerosolized particles from these excreta or through direct contact with rodent materials. This rodent association is key to understanding hantavirus epidemiology and transmission, which is why rodents are the correct choice. The other animals listed are linked to other pathogens and are not the usual reservoirs for hantaviruses.