Is Puumala hantavirus present in northern Italy?

Puumala virus (PUUV), a milder hantavirus species causing hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), has limited documented presence in some northern Italian alpine regions, particularly Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The virus is carried by the bank vole (Myodes glareolus), found in forested areas. Human cases in Italy have been very rare and mild compared to Eurasian hotspots like Finland or Russia. Recent surveillance has not flagged Puumala as an active concern, and it should not be confused with the much more lethal Andes virus (ANDV) involved in the 2026 MV Hondius cluster. Routine forest precautions (ventilate alpine cabins before entering, avoid contact with rodent droppings) are sufficient.