Network "Rodent-borne pathogens" in Germany: longitudinal studies on the geographical distribution and prevalence of hantavirus infections.

摘要: Hantavirus infections are known in Germany since the 1980s. While overall antibody prevalence against hantaviruses general human population was estimated to be about 1–2%, an average of 100–200 clinical cases recorded annually. In years 2005 and 2007 particular, a large increase number hantavirus observed. The most affected regions were located federal states Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine Westphalia, Lower Saxony. contrast well-documented situation humans, knowledge geographical distribution frequency their rodent reservoirs as well any changes thereof very limited. Hence, network “Rodent-borne pathogens” established allowing synergistic investigations dynamics, evolution other rodent-associated pathogens underlying mechanisms order understand impact on infections. A monitoring rodents from endemic (Baden-Wuerttemberg, Saxony) with low (Mecklenburg Western-Pomerania, Brandenburg, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt) initiated. Within outbreak regions, high Puumala virus (PUUV) detected bank voles. Initial longitudinal studies Westphalia (city Cologne), Bavaria (Lower Bavaria), Saxony (rural region close Osnabruck) demonstrated continuing presence PUUV vole populations. These will allow conclusions rodent-borne distribution, which can used for risk assessment This may become important evaluate epidemiology light expected global climate future.