Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare: Two Finns exposed to hantavirus
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) announced on Friday that two Finnish individuals have potentially been exposed to hantavirus. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and investigating the background of the exposure.
Hantaviruses are viruses that generally spread through rodents, such as voles or rats. Humans can become infected by inhaling dust containing the virus, which can be stirred up when cleaning areas contaminated by rodent droppings or urine.
The most common hantavirus in Finland is the Puumala virus, which causes nephropathia epidemica (a mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome). It typically causes sudden fever, headache, and muscle pain. In most cases, symptoms are mild, but in more severe instances, the virus can cause kidney problems.
THL reminds the public that caution should be exercised when cleaning rodent droppings. For example, when cleaning summer cottages or storage sheds, it is recommended to wear a respirator and avoid stirring up dust.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case. At present, there are no signs that the virus has spread further among the population, but citizens are advised to follow the instructions provided by the authorities.