The Hantaan virus is primarily carried by which rodent?

• A. Field mouse
• B. Deer mouse
• C. Norway rat
• D. House mouse

Answer: (A)

Rodent hosts serve as natural reservoirs for hantaviruses, with each virus typically tied to a specific rodent species. Hantaan virus is associated with the striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius) in Asia. These mice carry the virus and shed it in urine, droppings, and saliva, and humans usually become infected by inhaling dust contaminated with this material. Among the options, the field mouse matches the known reservoir for Hantaan virus, making it the best choice. The deer mouse is linked to Sin Nombre virus in North America; the urban rats are linked to Seoul virus; and house mice are not the primary reservoir for Hantaan.