Seoul Hantavirus-induced haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: Fancy rats and a fancy diagnosis in the UK

Hantavirus infection in humans presents in two distinct clinical forms cardiopulmonary syndrome and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. These clinical manifestations are influenced by geographical distribution, which is associated with specific hantavirus species. Human infection occurs by direct or indirect contact with rodent excreta. We present a case of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome secondary to hantavirus infection, characterised by fever, diarrhoea, and renal and hepatic dysfunction. The infection was acquired in the United Kingdom following direct exposure to domesticated and wild rodents. Confirmation of Seoul hantavirus infection was obtained through molecular and serological testing at the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory. The patient improved with conservative management, and ribavirin was not used. Although hantavirus infection is rare in the United Kingdom, it should be considered in patients with fever, renal impairment, and a history of rodent exposure. A comprehensive social history and high index of suspicion are essential to avoid missing the diagnosis.