A new scientific study is causing concern in the global health community that finds that hantavirus can remain in human semen for up to six years after infection, with a potential risk of sexual transmission.
This is noted by a new scientific study that is causing concern in the global health community.
Experts warn that these findings may lead to new public health guidelines for men who have contracted the virus.
Worrying research on hantavirus
The research was carried out by the Swiss government institute Spiez Laboratory, which specializes in dealing with biological, chemical and nuclear threats, and was published in the scientific journal Viruses.
Scientists examined the case of a 55-year-old Swiss man who was infected with the Andean strain of hantavirus during a trip to South America.
Although tests showed that there was no longer any trace of the virus in his blood, urine or respiratory system, the researchers found genetic material of the virus in his semen even 71 months after infection, almost six years later.
The study points out that the testicles can act as a "reservoir" or "safe haven" for certain viruses, allowing them to remain in the body without being easily detected by the immune system. Similar phenomena have been observed with other dangerous viruses, such as Ebola and Zika.
Potential for sexual transmission
Overall, our results show that the Andean virus has the potential for sexual transmission," the 2023 study states, although no confirmed incident of transmission through sexual contact has been recorded to date.
Scientists explain that sperm cells are protected by the immune system, as they are essential for human reproduction. However, this natural "protective environment" can also allow viruses to survive for long periods of time.
The case has sparked heightened interest following recent concerns related to the cruise ship, where eight confirmed cases of hantavirus were recorded, while about 20 more people were placed in isolation in Britain without showing symptoms, the Telegraph said in a statement.
Ebola protocols for men who have been ill
Airfinity, which monitors international public health risks, recommends that male patients receive "extensive guidance on safe sexual practices beyond the 42-day quarantine." As its analysts say, the guidelines should be "analogous to the World Health Organization's semen monitoring protocols for Ebola survivors".
According to WHO protocols for Ebola, the sperm of men who have survived the disease should be tested every three months and considered safe only after two consecutive negative results. Until then, men are asked to either abstain from all forms of sexual intercourse or use condoms "consistently and correctly".
WHO guidelines also provide for thorough washing with soap and water after any contact with sperm, even after masturbation, in order to reduce the risk of possible transmission.
Research intensity
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which closely monitors incidents linked to the MV Hondius, told the Telegraph: "We are constantly reviewing all guidance and monitoring new evidence, including international investigations, as it becomes available."
The same agency added: "All people in England who have been confirmed as cases or identified as contacts will be provided with all necessary public health advice, including advice to reduce the risk of further transmission."
Experts emphasize that further research is needed to determine whether the hantavirus can indeed be sexually transmitted to humans, but the new findings highlight the importance of even more intensive study of the virus.
iefimerida.gr
