Deadly Andes Hantavirus Detected in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod Oblast

Health officials in Nizhny Novgorod Oblast have issued a warning about the Andes strain of hantavirus. This rare but deadly virus poses a serious risk, with a fatality rate as high as 40%. Unlike most hantaviruses, it can spread directly between people under certain conditions. The Andes virus is one of the most dangerous strains in the hantavirus family. Its natural reservoirs are found in Chile and Argentina, where the long-tailed pygmy rice rat acts as the primary carrier. Humans usually contract the virus through contact with infected rodents or their droppings.

Transmission between people is possible but requires prolonged close contact. Early symptoms mimic those of a cold or flu, making detection difficult. Without warning, the infection can escalate rapidly, causing severe lung damage and shock.

There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for the Andes virus. Medical care focuses on managing symptoms and supporting respiratory function. The high mortality rate—ranging from 25% to 40%—highlights the urgency of prevention and early intervention. Residents in Nizhny Novgorod Oblast have been advised to take precautions against exposure. Avoiding contact with rodents and seeking immediate medical attention for flu-like symptoms could reduce the risk of severe outcomes. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.