Epidemiological profile of Hantavirus infections in the state of Mato Grosso from 2014 to 2023

Abstract

Hantavírus infection is classified as an acute viral zoonosis that may progress a fatal condition. Its reservoirs include rodents, shrews, moles and bats. Objective: To analyze the Hantavirus epidemiological profile cases reported in the state of Mato Grosso (MT), Brazil, from 2014 to 2023. Methods: this is a descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional and retrospective epidemiological study. Data were collected from 2014 to 2023 through the online Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) of the Mato Grosso State Health Department. Results: Among the 102 Hantavirus cases reported during the study period, the highest prevalence rates were observed in the following categories: the year 2014 (23.5%); the months of  April and July (13.7% and 12.7%, respectively); the 35-39  year age group (19.6%); in males (85.3%); individuals with incomplete elementary education (grades 5 to 8) (25.5%); the municipality of  Campo Novo Parecis (24.5%); cardiopulmonary syndrome (50%); and exposure during the cleaning of grain storage facilities (37.3%). The overall case fatality rate was 35.3%, with higher mortality in years with fewer reported cases. The association analysis showed that the outcome was statistically related to age group (p < 0.050), the occurrence of work-related disease (p < 0.001), and clinical form (p < 0.001). The risk of death from hantavirus infection was 18 times higher in cases of occupational disease, 5.5 times higher in patients with cardiopulmonary syndrome, and increased in the 50–54 age group compared to other age groups. Conclusion: Early diagnosis must be improved to reduce the fatality rate, and preventive measures should be strengthened to mitigate the risk of infection.