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The recent deaths of three passengers aboard the cruise ship Hondius in the Atlantic have drawn international attention to the Hantavirus — a pathogen known for decades but now back in the spotlight. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the victims are believed to have contracted the virus during the voyage, which began in Ushuaia in southern Argentina. As a precaution, passengers are currently not allowed to disembark. While South African health authorities urge calm, many are asking: What exactly is the Hantavirus, and how dangerous is it for people in Austria?
A Virus Transmitted Mainly by Rodents
The Hantavirus was first identified during the Korean War in the early 1950s, when more than 3,000 U.S. soldiers fell ill with a severe fever accompanied by bleeding. The virus was later named after the Hantan River in Korea.
Today, several Hantavirus strains are known worldwide, each associated with specific rodent species and causing different disease patterns. Transmission to humans occurs primarily through mice and rats, which shed the virus in their droppings without becoming sick themselves. Infection can occur when contaminated dust becomes airborne and is inhaled — for example, when cleaning cabins, sheds, or storage spaces contaminated by rodents.
Transmission through rodent bites is possible but rare. Human-to-human transmission, on the other hand, is considered highly unlikely.
Presence in Austria: Cases Possible, Severe Courses Rare
In Austria, the bank vole (Rötelmaus) is the most important carrier of the virus and is widespread across the country. This means infections can theoretically occur in all federal states.
However, the Austrian Ministry of Health emphasizes that severe cases involving life-threatening bleeding are extremely rare in the country. Most infections remain mild or moderate.
Authorities recommend wearing gloves — and, if necessary, respiratory protection — when handling dead rodents or cleaning areas contaminated by mice.
Symptoms: From Flu-like Illness to Kidney Failure
The incubation period can last up to five weeks. The illness typically begins with:
- High fever
- Headaches
- Abdominal and back pain
- Flu-like malaise
In more severe cases, patients may experience:
- A drop in blood pressure
- Kidney problems
- Acute kidney failure
Certain Hantavirus strains found mainly in the Americas can also cause severe lung disease, known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). These forms are significantly more dangerous than the European variants.
No Vaccine Available
There is currently no vaccine against the Hantavirus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting organ function. Early medical attention can improve outcomes, especially in cases involving kidney complications.
Risk in Austria Remains Low — But Awareness Matters
While the outbreak on the Hondius has raised global concern, experts stress that such events are unusual. In Austria, the risk of infection remains low, and severe cases are uncommon. Still, health authorities encourage the public to stay informed and take simple precautions when dealing with rodents or potentially contaminated environments.
- source: vienna.at/picture: pixabay.com
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