First evidence of asymptomatic infection related to the Araucaria (Juquitiba-like) hantavirus

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Aug 5:2013:bcr2013009910. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009910.

Abstract

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a severe disease, transmitted to humans by inhalation of virus-contaminated aerosols from rodent excreta. Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory data confirmed a fatal HPS case and an asymptomatic infection in a household contact, both caused by Araucaria hantavirus, which has previously been found only in patients with HPS. This is the first report of asymptomatic infection related to a pathogenic hantavirus genotype, highlighting the need for additional studies on characterisation of viral and genetic mechanisms associated with this disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asymptomatic Infections*
  • Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Male