A woman living in Barcelona is in quarantine at the city's Hospital Clínic for possible hantavirus exposure. This follows her sharing a flight with a Dutch citizen who later died from the disease.
The Catalan woman shows no symptoms but will stay under observation and in preventative isolation for three to six weeks, according to Regió 7. This decision allows her to remain in Barcelona rather than be transferred to Madrid, where specialised virus centres are located. Hospital Clínic has set up a dedicated space for her isolation and to monitor for any symptoms.
Understanding Hantavirus
Hantavirus is an infectious disease primarily spread by inhaling secretions from infected rodents. While human-to-human transmission is rare, it is a serious illness. It can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) or Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
Catalan health authorities have activated follow-up and surveillance protocols. They aim to determine if there have been other potential exposures to the virus. Officials recommend that anyone who may have been in contact with the patient or who develops symptoms consistent with hantavirus should contact medical services.
