Spread of hantaviruses

Spread of hantaviruses observed in Hesse.

(04.08.2010) According to the Berlin-based Robert Koch Institute (RKI) are currently spreading „hantaviruses“ in the state of Hesse. The cause of the virus is the rapid propagation of mice suspected to distribute the hantavirus on excreta.

According to the Robert Koch Institute, 83 people in Hesse have been infected with hantavirus since the beginning of the year. Most cases were registered in East and Central Hesse. By comparison, last year just four people in Hesse have been infected with the dangerous human health virus. According to the RKI, 1148 people worldwide contracted the hantavirus by the end of July 2010. Since the disease can also lead to death, it is subject to reporting. So far, however, no deaths have been recorded this year.

The cause of the spread of the virus is the current proliferation of mice. In Germany, the virus mainly transmits the red chick. But other rodents can transmit the virus. Mice themselves do not get the virus, but excrete it again. Preferably, the viruses then accumulate in dusty cellars. The infection is not only due to the direct skin contact with the dust, but even if you inhale the virus-containing dust. Plentiful beechnuts, and a solid blanket of snow during the last winter protected the mice from frost and natural enemies.

The incubation period until the onset of hantavirus disease is 12 to 21 days. The virus can cause symptoms such as very high fever, headache, back pain, abdominal pain and minor bleeding (petechiae). An acute disease can cause decreased urinary excretion (oliguria) „arterial hypertension“ or even lead to the loss of one or both kidneys. Rarely, pulmonary edema also occurs. Patients should report to the doctor immediately if symptoms are described. A human-to-human transmission is not possible.

The hantavirus has been named after a river (Hanta River) in Korea. The virus became known worldwide after thousands of UN soldiers fell ill during the Korean War in the 1950s. Meanwhile, the virus is distributed worldwide.

Prevention prevents spread of hantavirus.
Precaution is the most important, because a vaccine against hantavirus currently does not exist and the specific treatment is not possible. A risk of infection exists especially where many mice could be. Often, the carriers in attics, sheds and basements on. However, a panic is unfounded, since not every mouse transmits the virus. Simple and sensible hygiene measures can reduce the risk of illness. Basements, attics and sheds should be ventilated regularly before entering the room. The rooms should also be cleaned regularly. Gloves and mouthguards should be worn. When cleaning, it is advisable to stir up as little dust as possible. After cleaning the rooms you should wash thoroughly. (Sb)

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