Hantavirus infections in The Netherlands: epidemiology and disease

Abstract

SUMMARYA serological survey for the prevalence of hantavirus infections in The Netherlands was carried out on > 10000 sera, from selected human populations, and different feral and domestic animal species. Hantavirus-specific antibodies were found in about 1 % of patients suspected of acute leptospirosis, 10% of patients with acute nephropathia, and in less than 011% haemodialysis and renal transplant patients. Among individuals with a suspected occupational risk, 6 % of animal trappers, 4 % of forestry workers, 2 % of laboratory workers and 0-4 % of farmers were seropositive. The majority of the seropositive individuals lived in rural and forested areas. The main animal reservoir of the infection was shown to be the red bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus). Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory findings seen in serologically confirmed human cases were similar to those associated with nephropathia epidemica.

Serological study of hantavirus in man in the Autonomous Community of Madrid, Spain

“…The seroprevalence was lower than that reported in other European countries including Italy 2.3% [12], the Netherlands 0.9% [13], Germany 1.7% [14], Greece 4-14% [15] and Finland 5% (range 0-12% dependent on region) [16]. However, in those studies, only IFA or enzyme immunoassay (EIA) were used to detect antibodies.…”

Prevalence of antibodies specific to Puumala virus among farmers in Sweden

“…In Germany and The Netherlands, Puumala virus antibodies have been found in increased frequency in animal trappers, forestry workers, and horse farmers (15,16) although not in farmers in general (16).…”

Hantaviruses

“…Generally occupational risk is a dominant factor, with occupations such as animal trappers, forestry workers, farmers and military personnel at highest risk [8,70]. Spring and summer rises in prevalence of HFRS in Asia are related to greater human contact with rodents during seasonal sowing=planting and harvesting activities [15].…”