Hantavirus Can Persist in Men's Sperm for Six Years, Poses Sexual Transmission Risk
New research conducted by Switzerland's Spiez Laboratory reveals that the Andes strain of hantavirus can remain active in men's sperm for up to six years after initial infection. The study examined a 55-year-old Swiss man who recovered from the virus but still harbored it in his testes, a biological sanctuary where the immune system has limited access. Although no confirmed cases of sexual transmission have been reported yet, this finding suggests a potential risk similar to that observed with Ebola and Zika viruses. Consequently, health experts advise male survivors to practice safe sex and undergo regular sperm testing for an extended period, mirroring World Health Organization protocols for Ebola survivors. This discovery is particularly relevant following recent hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency is monitoring the situation and providing comprehensive advice to prevent further spread. This study highlights that hantavirus transmission is not limited to rodent contact or airborne routes, necessitating updated medical guidelines and heightened public awareness regarding long-term post-recovery precautions.
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