Graz (February 27, 2023).- The hantavirus, which is transmitted by bank voles, has recently spread widely in Styria. There were 183 cases last year. The reason for this is the strong increase in infectious mouse populations. Wherever the mice could have stayed during the winter months, there is a risk of becoming infected with the hantavirus.
People come into contact with the pathogen by inhaling contaminated dust. The dust particles can contain residues of mouse droppings, their saliva or urine. The risk is particularly high when sweeping old attics, alpine and hunting huts, barns and tool sheds.
The disease usually begins with a sudden onset of high fever that lasts for three to four days. It is accompanied by non-specific, flu-like symptoms such as headache, stomach and muscle pain, photophobia, blurred vision, red throat and cough. After a few days, most patients experience severe back pain, abdominal pain, dizziness and vomiting. The lungs and kidneys can be severely affected. If organ failure occurs, care in an intensive care unit and, if necessary, dialysis is required.
The incubation period is usually two to four weeks, in exceptional cases it can be five to 60 days. Neither a suitable vaccine nor a specific drug therapy is currently available. People whose living and working conditions favor contact with infected rodents and their excrement or who come into direct contact with the virus are particularly at risk of infection.
“People who work on farms, forest workers and laboratory staff are particularly at risk,” says the state health director Ilse Gross out of. “Dusty floors and surfaces should be wetted before cleaning. Wear appropriate protective equipment wherever bank voles may have been and where they are performing dust-raising activities. The use of protective mask (FFP2), goggles, hat, gloves and work clothes/overalls can reduce the risk of infection.”
Graz, February 27, 2023