Chile: Rise in Hantavirus cases /update 2

Event

At least 24 cases of Hantavirus (six fatal) were confirmed in Chile - in Biobío and Los Ríos regions - in January, a relatively high case rate. Health officials have warned that case rates could continue to rise in the coming weeks, potentially through March. Generally speaking, the risk of contracting the disease is highest during the summer, ~November - March/April in Chile.

Hantavirus is spread via the urine, saliva, and feces of infected rodents and is contracted via contact with contaminated surfaces or via inhalation of contaminated air. As such, the local health authorities are urging residents to: avoid areas where rodents may be present (e.g. barns, construction sites, garbage dumps); only camp in authorized zones; make sure any outdoor garbage cans are properly covered and the area kept clean to avoid attracting rodents; regularly air out any structures that may have rodent infestations (barns, garages, etc.); and properly store foodstuffs in refrigerators or airtight containers.

Context

The most common symptoms of the virus are similar to those of influenza: fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other possible symptoms include headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Hantavirus is fatal in roughly one-third of reported cases.

Advice

Those present in Chile should avoid exposure to potentially rodent-infested areas. Individuals exhibiting the aforementioned symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical treatment.