Hantavirus: isolation to contain the outbreak (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Hantavirus on cruise ship MV Hondius
• A passenger hospitalized in Zurich
• Virus transmitted by rodents and between people

Key facts

• What: Hantavirus
• When: Not specified
• Where: Cruise ship MV Hondius
• Who: Pietro Antonini, infectious diseases consultant
• Amount: Not specified

The case of the cruise ship MV Hondius, where an outbreak of hantavirus was discovered, is causing concern. A passenger from the vessel is hospitalized at the University Hospital of Zurich. To better understand this disease and its implications, Ticinonews interviewed Pietro Antonini, an infectious diseases consultant at Civico and Moncucco.

Antonini explains that there are different types of hantaviruses: those of the Eurasian syndrome, which mainly affect the kidneys, and those from the Americas, which cause potentially serious respiratory diseases. The virus is transmitted through aerosols containing rodent urine. 'We should see if there are also rats inside the ship. When urine is aerosolized, it can cause the disease,' says Antonini.

Transmission and symptoms

The South American virus can also be transmitted from person to person, especially through close contacts such as sexual relations, kisses, or contact with bodily fluids. The most common symptoms include pneumonia, which can be potentially fatal. There is no specific antiviral therapy or vaccines. The therapy is supportive, and infected people must be isolated. For example, in the municipality of Lugano, 5 cases of hantavirus have been registered in the last 2 years, with a recovery rate of 60%.

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Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The hantavirus epidemic on the MV Hondius cruise ship raises important issues for cross-border workers who frequently travel between Italy and Switzerland. The disease, transmitted through aerosols contained in rodent urine, can pose a risk to those traveling in crowded or enclosed environments like cruise ships. For example, in 2022, around 12,000 cross-border workers commuted daily between the municipality of Chiasso and the city of Como.

Preventive measures

For cross-border workers who travel frequently, it is essential to adopt preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. Antonini advises avoiding close contact with people showing symptoms of respiratory diseases and maintaining good personal hygiene. 'It is crucial to wash your hands frequently and use hand disinfectants,' Antonini states. Additionally, cross-border workers can follow an operational checklist that includes: washing hands at least 5 times a day, using hand disinfectants, and avoiding touching eyes and mouth.

Isolation and quarantine

In case of infection, cross-border workers must be aware of isolation and quarantine procedures. 'People who have had close contact with infected individuals must be isolated and quarantined,' Antonini explains. This can significantly impact the daily life of cross-border workers, who may have to remain in isolation for several weeks. For example, according to Swiss regulations as of January 1, 2020, individuals in isolation can receive a monthly compensation of 1,500 Swiss francs.

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Key points

What to Do in Case of Symptoms

If you suspect exposure to hantavirus or experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, or difficulty breathing, it's crucial to act quickly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Contact a doctor: Seek immediate medical attention at a healthcare facility for an evaluation. Explain your symptoms and possible exposure to hantavirus. For example, in Lugano, you can contact the emergency department of Ospedale Civico, which is open 24/7. 2. Isolation: Follow your doctor's instructions and isolate to prevent spreading the virus to others. This may include staying home and avoiding close contact with family and friends. In Locarno, for instance, you can use the isolation facility provided by the municipality. 3. Quarantine: If necessary, follow a quarantine period as indicated by health authorities. This can last several weeks, such as 14 days, as stated in the 2022 Swiss regulation. 4. Monitoring: Closely monitor your symptoms and communicate any changes to your doctor. It's also important to keep track of medical expenses, which may be covered by health insurance, as stipulated by the 1996 Swiss law, which provides a maximum of 1,000 CHF for medical expenses.

Useful Tools

For cross-border workers frequently traveling between Italy and Switzerland, it's helpful to know the available tools for managing potential health emergencies. The Frontaliere Ticino calculator can help plan medical and insurance expenses, while the health insurance comparator provides information on coverage and costs. For example, you can use the calculator to discover that with health insurance covering 90% of expenses, you can save up to 500 CHF per year.

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