Andes Hantavirus Detected in Switzerland After South American Trip

A male patient returned to Switzerland with his wife at the end of April after a South American trip. The patient had been a passenger on a cruise ship where several hantavirus cases were reported. After developing symptoms, he called his general practitioner, traveled to the University Hospital Zurich (USZ), and was placed in isolation upon arrival. A reference test performed by the Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) confirmed infection with the Andes virus, a hantavirus endemic to South America. The patient remains under treatment at USZ, while his wife, who showed no symptoms, is self-isolating as a precaution.

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The Andes virus belongs to the hantavirus family and is primarily transmitted in South America. Unlike European hantaviruses, which spread through rodent excreta, the Andes variant can, in rare instances, be transmitted from person to person, but only through close, direct contact. Documented human-to-human cases are limited, and transmission has only been observed in close-contact settings.

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Hantavirus fever is uncommon in Switzerland, with annual reports ranging from zero to six cases in recent years. The majority of these infections were acquired abroad, reflecting the country’s low endemic exposure. This case adds to the small number of imported hantavirus infections recorded by Swiss health authorities.

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The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) said the risk to the Swiss population is low and further cases are unlikely. USZ, the reference hospital for such diseases, confirmed its readiness to treat the patient while protecting staff and other patients. Zurich cantonal authorities are tracing the patient’s contacts. The FOPH is coordinating with Zurich and Geneva university hospitals, cantonal officials, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

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No criticism or opposition has been reported in the available sources regarding the handling of this case.

Patient with a hantavirus infection being treated in hospital

• “One person has tested positive for hantavirus in Switzerland.” — Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)

Patient with a hantavirus infection being treated in hospital

• “There, he was immediately placed in isolation.” — University Hospital Zurich (USZ)

Patient with a hantavirus infection being treated in hospital

• “The risk to the public in Switzerland is low.” — Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)

Patient with a hantavirus infection being treated in hospital

• “The USZ is prepared for such cases, can care for the patient, and ensure the safety of both staff and all patients.” — University Hospital Zurich (USZ)

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Zurich cantonal authorities are assessing whether the patient had close contact with others during his infectious period. The patient’s wife continues self-isolation as a precaution. The FOPH, in collaboration with WHO and national laboratories, will maintain surveillance for any secondary cases and update the public as new information emerges.

Patient with a hantavirus infection being treated in hospital