Share:
More and more infections Rapid increase in hantavirus diseases
In Germany, hantavirus infections have been increasing since the beginning of the year. The number of illnesses has risen sharply compared to the previous year, also in Bavaria. But there are ways to protect yourself from infection.
More and more hantavirus infections
In recent months, a rapid increase in hantavirus infections has been recorded in Germany. The numbers are significantly higher than in the previous year. While the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported 282 cases nationwide in 2016, it was already 747 by 21 June this year, according to a recent report. The fact that the number of infections varies from year to year is also evident in Bavaria.
The number of hantavirus diseases in Germany has increased sharply. The viruses are transmitted via the excretions of infected rodents. Experts explain how to protect yourself. (Image: alexlmx / fotolia.com) Experts expect the number of cases to increase
Since the beginning of 2017, the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety (LGL) has reported "a total of 155 cases of hantavirus diseases (data as of 26.06.2017)", it says on the website of the Office.
"In the same period last year, there were only 8 cases in Bavaria. It can be assumed that a significant increase in hantavirus diseases is to be expected in 2017, "write the experts.
Also in earlier years occurred in some similar accumulations.
Disease starts with flu-like symptoms
Reason for the increase is that the main transmitter of the virus, the red chick, increased itself particularly well this year thanks to the good food supply in the winter and favorable climatic conditions.
The mouse stocks are cyclical. Therefore, there are always years with heaped cases of hantavirus. Infections are notifiable.
According to LGL, hantavirus diseases are usually associated with flu-like symptoms such as fever, limb and headaches.
In the further course, a drop in blood pressure and eventually renal dysfunction can be added to the acute renal failure, warn the experts of the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in a leaflet.
Virus transmission via the respiratory tract or by smear infections
There you also learn how to get infected. Hantaviruses are excreted by infected rodents (eg, mice and rats) and shrews via saliva, urine, and faeces.
Transmission to humans takes place either via the respiratory tract or through smear infections via the hands.
"Humans become infected through contact with excretions from infected rodents when contaminated dust is whirled up and the pathogens are inhaled."
For contagion no direct contact with the animals is necessary. Bite infection from infected rodents is also possible, according to RKI.
Transmission from human to human, as well as infection via pets or via vectors (for example mosquitoes or ticks) are unlikely to occur.
That's how you can protect yourself
The RKI also explains how to protect yourself: "You can reduce the risk of hantavirus infection by avoiding contact with rodents and their excretions and taking certain precautions."
According to the experts, this includes "above all preventing the penetration of rodents into the living area and its immediate surroundings."
These measures should be implemented, especially in known endemic areas, if rodent infestation has been identified or if activities are performed in locations where rodents are expected to occur.
The LGL Bayern points out on its website that in activities in rooms (sheds, cellars, attics, garden sheds) in which mice live, but also outdoors, e.g. For composting or woodwork, special care is required.
"Dust should be avoided during cleaning work by pre-moistening. In case of visible mouse infestation gloves and, if applicable, surgical mask should be worn. "(Ad)