The Muerto Canyon virus primarily affects which organ in humans?

The Muerto Canyon virus primarily affects the lungs in humans. This virus is a type of hantavirus, which is known to cause respiratory diseases characterized by severe respiratory distress. When transmission occurs, typically through contact with rodent droppings or urine, the virus can lead to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Symptoms may initially resemble those of the flu but can quickly progress to more severe respiratory issues, including difficulty breathing and cough, due to the impact on the lungs.

Other organs like the kidneys and intestine can be involved in various diseases, but in the case of the Muerto Canyon virus, the lungs are the primary site of infection and pathology. Understanding how this virus interacts with the respiratory system is vital for recognizing symptoms and managing potential outbreaks effectively.