Hantavirus ‘can pose sexual transmission risk years after infection’, experts say

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleA peer-reviewed study revealed that hantavirus genetic material persisted in a 55-year-old man's semen for 71 months (nearly six years) after his initial infection. This finding, from scientists at Switzerland’s Spiez Laboratory, suggests the male reproductive tract may act as a reservoir for the virus, indicating a potential for sexual transmission years after initial infection. Hantavirus typically spreads through rodent exposure and can cause a severe illness with a high fatality rate, making its long-term persistence a significant public health concern. Experts are now advocating for the World Health Organisation (WHO) to revise its guidance, recommending extensive safe-sex advice for male patients, akin to protocols for Ebola survivors. The current WHO advice suggests a 42-day quarantine for high-risk contacts, but new research implies a need for longer-term monitoring and precautions, such as condom use. In fullHantavirus ‘can remain in semen for six years’ representing transmission risk, according to studyThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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