The Berguedà region in Central Catalonia was the location of the only hantavirus case detected in Catalonia in 2024. The Epidemiological Surveillance Service confirmed an autochthonous case in September of last year, according to data published by the Department of Health.
This incident marks the sole recent occurrence of the disease in the autonomous community. It highlights the importance of epidemiological surveillance and the prevention of emerging infectious diseases.
Hantaviruses are a group of viruses primarily transmitted by inhaling particles from the excrement of infected rodents, such as mice or rats. Infection can lead to two main illnesses: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).
Understanding Hantavirus Symptoms
Symptoms of HPS typically appear one to eight weeks after infection. These include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues. As the disease progresses, severe respiratory difficulties can develop, requiring hospitalisation and potentially proving fatal.
HFRS, on the other hand, has a longer incubation period, usually one to two weeks. Its symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, and, in later stages, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and signs of haemorrhage.
Prevention and Health Advice
Preventing hantavirus infection involves avoiding contact with rodents and their secretions. This means ventilating enclosed spaces before entering them, using masks and gloves when cleaning potentially contaminated areas, and storing food in airtight containers to prevent contamination.
Health authorities advise consulting a doctor if symptoms consistent with hantavirus infection appear. This is especially important if individuals have been in at-risk areas or have engaged in activities that might involve contact with rodents.
