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 is stirred up from sources like rodent droppings or nesting materials. The most common hantavirus in Finland is the Puumala virus, which causes nephropathia epidemica (a mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome).
According to THL, the cases have not posed a widespread danger to the public. However, the agency reminds people to exercise caution when cleaning up rodent droppings. For example, when cleaning cabins or storage areas, one should avoid raising dust into the air to prevent the inhalation of the virus.
Symptoms of nephropathia epidemica typically include a sudden high fever, headache, muscle pain, and abdominal pain. In some cases, the disease can also cause kidney problems. In most cases, however, the disease resolves on its own with rest and symptomatic treatment.
Authorities continue to investigate the matter and will provide further information if necessary. At present, there are no signs that these cases require special restrictive measures for the public.