Hantavirus (ANDV): Transmission, Symptoms & Prevention in Everyday Life
The so-called Andes virus (ANDV), a rare form of Hantavirus, is currently attracting international attention. Reports of several deaths on a cruise ship in South America have unsettled many people and raised questions about transmission, symptoms, and prevention methods.
However, it is important to put this into perspective:
According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), the risk for Switzerland is currently assessed as low.
Nevertheless, the current situation shows how important conscious hygiene, prevention, and simple protective routines remain in everyday life – especially when traveling, on public transport, or in crowds.
What is Hantavirus?
The Hantavirus is a group of viruses found worldwide, usually transmitted via rodents. Different variants exist depending on the region.
The currently discussed Andes virus (ANDV) mainly originates from:
- Chile
- Argentina
- South America
What is special about the Andes virus:
Unlike European hantaviruses, human-to-human transmission has been observed in rare cases.
How is Hantavirus transmitted?
Most hantaviruses are not transmitted directly between humans, but through infected rodents.
Common transmission routes for Hantavirus:
- Inhalation of virus-laden dust
- Contact with urine, saliva, or feces of infected rodents
- Aerosols in enclosed spaces
- Stirred-up dust particles when cleaning basements, garages, or sheds
The viruses usually enter the body via:
- Respiratory tract
- Mouth
- Nose
- Mucous membranes
into the body.
Human-to-human transmission of the Andes virus (ANDV)
The Andes virus (ANDV) is considered a special case among hantaviruses.
In rare cases, human-to-human transmission has been observed – particularly:
- with close contact
- within a household
- during prolonged shared time in enclosed spaces
- via respiratory secretions or saliva
Important:
Hantaviruses occurring in Europe are currently not considered to be significantly transmissible from person to person.
Hantavirus Symptoms
Symptoms of hantavirus can vary depending on the virus variant.
Possible symptoms:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headaches and body aches
- Cough
- Respiratory problems
- Flu-like symptoms
In severe cases, lung involvement can occur.
In case of health complaints or suspected infection, medical advice should always be sought.
Hantavirus Switzerland: How high is the risk?
According to the FOPH, the risk for Switzerland is currently assessed as low.
Nevertheless, many people are now more consciously aware of:
- Everyday hygiene
- Protection on the go
- Prevention when traveling
- Hygiene routines on public transport
Because many viruses enter the body via hands and mucous membranes of the mouth and nose.
Prevention in everyday life: Why hygiene remains important
Prevention does not mean fear or uncertainty.
It is more about consciously integrating simple hygiene measures into daily life.
Hygiene can be particularly useful:
- after public transport
- when traveling
- after crowds
- in the office
- on the go in everyday life
Often, small habits are enough:
✅ Hygienically clean hands
✅ Consciously protect mouth & nose
✅ Pay attention to hygiene after traveling or public transport
The DESINFACTIVE® Hygiene Routine
DESINFACTIVE® supports a modern and uncomplicated prevention routine for at home and on the go.
DESINFACTIVE® Medical
For hygienic hand cleansing in everyday life.
Ideal:
- on the go
- in the office
- after public transport
- when traveling
DESINFACTIVE® Pure
For use in the mouth and nose area.
Application:
A small spray into the mouth and nose, inhale briefly, then spit out.
The included HOCl technology is based on hypochlorous acid and supports hygiene directly at the entry points.
Advantages:
- quick to use
- compact for on the go
- easy to integrate into daily routine
