Epidemiological update – 11 August 2026: Imported case of Andes hantavirus in the EU/EEA

According to the report, the person stayed in France from 19 July to 2 August and developed mild symptoms during this period. The person sought medical care on 23 July, did not require hospitalisation and has been symptom-free since 28 July. Andes hantavirus infection was confirmed by the National Reference Centre on 6 August 2026. 

After leaving France, the person travelled to Spain, where they were at the time the infection was confirmed. Spanish public health authorities were informed and initiated follow-up measures. Investigations are ongoing to identify the probable source of infection in Argentina and to identify contacts who may have been exposed in France or Spain during the infectious period. 

Andes hantavirus is the only hantavirus for which person-to-person transmission has been documented. However, such transmission is rare and usually occurs after close and prolonged contact with a symptomatic case. 

The available information suggests that the infection was most likely acquired in Argentina before travel to Europe. The natural rodent reservoir of Andes virus is not present in Europe. Therefore, establishment of animal reservoirs and sustained rodent-to-human transmission in the EU/EEA are not expected. 

Based on the available epidemiological information and the public health measures being implemented, ECDC assesses the risk for the general population in the EU/EEA as very low. 

ECDC continues to monitor this event through epidemic intelligence activities and is liaising with the relevant national public health authorities to collect additional information about the person, contact tracing and any potential secondary cases. 

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