Hantavirus in Russia: Cases, Regions, and 2025 Forecast
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Hantavirus in Russia is primarily hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. It's called "mouse fever" or HFRS. The disease occurs regularly in our country. It belongs to natural focal infections.
According to Rospotrebnadzor, 3,396 cases of HFRS were registered in Russia in 2024. That's 2.32 per 100,000 population. The rate decreased by 33.7% compared to 2023. But relaxing is premature.
Ten deaths were registered. Lethality was 0.29%. Among children, 161 cases were registered.
Where in Russia People Get Hantavirus
The main share of patients — over 97% — is in the European part of the country. Less than 3% — in the Far East. In Siberia, cases are isolated.
The most active foci are in the Volga Federal District. Up to 85% of all cases are registered there. Udmurtia, Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, Samara region are the leaders in incidence.
| Region | Cases in 2024 | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Udmurtia | 157 | One of the highest rates |
| Samara region | 285 (for 10 months 2025) | Growth 6.5 times vs last year |
| Kirov region | 188 (2023) | 4.3 times higher than national average |
| Moscow region | Rare | Occurs but less often |
In 2025, the situation may worsen. Rospotrebnadzor warns of possible incidence increase. Reason — warm and low-snow winter. This means more rodents survived. They actively reproduce.
How Russians Get Infected
In Russia, infection occurs mainly in rural areas. City dwellers get infected at dachas, in basements, when cleaning attics.
The main source is the red-backed vole. This rodent lives in mixed forests. Puumala virus is the most common pathogen in our country.
Infection happens by inhaling dust. Especially during earthwork: vegetable harvesting, berry and mushroom gathering, loading hay. Virus enters the body through lungs.
Men get sick more often than women. They account for 70–90% of cases. This is because they more often work in forests and on agricultural work.
HFRS Symptoms in Russians
Disease begins acutely. Temperature suddenly rises to 38–40°C. Severe headache appears. Muscles ache. Chills set in.
A characteristic sign is reddening of face, neck, upper torso. Doctors call this "hood symptom".
After several days, condition worsens. Lower back pain appears. Urine output decreases. In severe cases, urination stops completely.
Nosebleeds may begin. Blood appears in urine. Acute kidney failure develops. Patient may be directed to hemodialysis.
Deaths are often associated with late seeking help. Many think it's just flu.
HFRS Prevention in Russia
There is no vaccine against hantavirus in Russia. Therefore, prevention is the only way to protect yourself.
- Don't allow rodents into homes and outbuildings
- Seal cracks and holes with metal mesh
- Store products in sealed containers
- Don't leave food on tables and floors
When cleaning rooms where rodents were:
- Ventilate at least 30 minutes
- Wear respirator and gloves
- Moisten surfaces before cleaning
- Don't use vacuum cleaner — it spreads the virus
At dacha and on hike:
- Don't put food on the ground
- Wash hands before eating
- Don't drink water from open sources
- Sleep in tents, not under the open sky
If temperature rises after working in nature — see a doctor immediately. Tell about contact with rodents. This will help diagnose faster.