A zoonotic arenavirus is maintained in rodent reservoirs, particularly the house mouse (Mus musculus), and transmitted to humans through inhalation or direct contact with contaminated rodent urine, feces, or saliva. Infection in humans commonly results in a self-limited febrile illness but may follow a biphasic course and progress to aseptic meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Severe or life-threatening disease has been reported in immunocompromised individuals, transplant recipients, and in congenital infections following maternal exposure during pregnancy.
Synonyms
LCMV