Is hantavirus present in Italy?

Italy has no documented autochthonous (locally acquired) cases of hantavirus disease. Puumala virus (PUUV) — a milder hantavirus species causing HFRS — has limited presence in some northern alpine regions (Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia) but no recent human cases. ECDC assesses the risk for the general European population from the MV Hondius outbreak as 'very low'. The Italian Ministry of Health has nonetheless reinforced surveillance. Travelers returning from Argentina, Chile, or Uruguay between November 2025 and May 2026 with respiratory symptoms should mention their travel history when consulting a physician.