Over 20 people who worked together developed cough excess fluid in their lungs and difficulty breathing chest x rays show bilateral infiltrates with bronchial aspirates rich protein several died?

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

- Caused by hantaviruses, a family of single-stranded RNA viruses.

- Transmitted through contact with infected rodents (in this case, likely deer mice) or their excreta.

- Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, and fluid in the lungs.

- Can lead to severe respiratory distress and death.

- Treatment is supportive, with oxygen and mechanical ventilation as needed.

- Prevention involves avoiding contact with wild rodents and their habitats, and sealing any holes or cracks in homes or buildings where rodents could enter.