Hantaviruses are RNA viruses that can infect humans via rodent waste including urine and saliva especially when these are aerosolized. The resulting syndromes include hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS fatality rates can be as high as 60%. Many species of the Hantavirus genus have been isolated worldwide, and while many do not cause disease in humans, others such as Hantaan and Sin Nombre are famous for outbreaks in humans. ViroStat has developed 3 new monoclonal antibodies to the nucleocapsid protein (N) of Hantavirus. One of these recognizes all viruses tested (6) while the other two recognize 4 viral species. These new antibodies are useful tools to further the research of this viral genus.

ViroStat, Inc., 207-856-6620, www.virostat-inc.com