It has been reported that the patient traveled to Eastern Europe several months ago and may have contracted the virus there. After symptoms of the disease appeared, medical assistance was sought.
Initial analysis of antibodies indicated the presence of hantavirus markers. The diagnosis was later officially confirmed through a PCR test.
Doctors assess the patient's condition as stable. He does not require intensive therapy or strict isolation. The patient's identity and the name of the hospital where he is being treated have not been disclosed.
It is noted that the identified virus strain differs from the strain that spread on the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. According to the World Health Organization, a Dutch couple and a German citizen died due to hantavirus on board that ship, and at least eight other people fell ill.
The MV Hondius, with about 150 people on board, set course for Spain and was supposed to reach the island of Tenerife on May 10. It is currently reported that there are no passengers showing symptoms of the virus on the ship.
According to Reuters, several countries are monitoring passengers who left the ship before it reached the shores of Cape Verde in order to prevent the spread of the disease. About 40 people disembarked at the port of Santa Elena before reports of the virus spread emerged. The whereabouts of most of them remain unknown for now.
Hantavirus is a group of viruses that are primarily transmitted to humans through rodents. The virus can be transmitted through animal excreta and has the potential to cause serious damage to lung and kidney function.
The disease typically presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. Experts recommend undergoing a repeat analysis 72 hours after the initial symptoms if hantavirus is suspected. Currently, there is no specific treatment for the virus; patients mainly receive supportive therapy.
