Puumala virus

Updated : December 21, 2023

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Puumala virus (PUUV), designated after the Finnish municipality of Puumala, where it was first identified in 1980, has a distinct epidemiology, particularly in Scandinavia & Finland. It has also been reported in other parts of Northern Europe, such as Poland and Russia. The virus is linked to the bank vole (Myodes glareolus), which acts as its reservoir. The disease developed by the Puumala virus, the nephropathia epidemic, has a cyclic pattern that coincides with the population dynamics of bank voles, recurring over three- to four-year cycles. 

Inhaling dust infected with vole droppings causes humans to become infected with the Puumala virus. This mode of transmission emphasizes the significance of virus exposure in the environment. Puumala virus, unlike other ortho hantaviruses, is thought to have potentially deadly effects on its rodent host, contributing to its persistence in the vole community. 

There is a high prevalence of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Europe, with over 10,000 cases identified yearly. The Puumala virus serotype causes roughly 93% of reported Hantavirus infections in Germany. Between 2002-2006, the notified incidence of HFRS ranged from 0.2 to 1.4 per 100,000 people in the province of Baden-Wuerttemberg, situated in southwestern Germany, encompassing an area of 35,742 km2 with a citizenry of 10.8 million.

By the end of March 2007, there had been a significant increase in the number of registered cases in Wuerttemberg, with 86 instances already reported, relative to an average of 12 cases during the previous five years. Puumala virus has been reported as endemic in parts of South & West Germany. 

An Israeli researcher investigating the behavior of bank voles in Finland contracted the Puumala virus in August 2014, resulting in a full breakdown of her immune system. It emphasizes the severity of Puumala virus infestation in humans, especially in people who work in rodent environments. 

Kingdom: Virus 

Phylum: Negarnaviricota 

Class: Ellioviricetes 

Order: Bunyavirales 

Family: Hantaviridae 

Genus: Orthohantavirus 

Species: Puumala virus 

Puumala virus‘s viral genome is made up of three single-stranded RNA segments known as the S (small), L (large), and M (middle) and it contains viral glycoproteins that are embedded in the lipid bilayer. 

PUUV is an enveloped virus with a spherical or pleomorphic shape and size of 80- 120 nm in diameter. 

The most extended segment constitutes the L segment, approximately 6550 nucleotides long. It controls the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) necessary for viral replication. 

The S segment is the smallest, measuring approximately 1830 nucleotides. It contains the genetic information for the nucleocapsid protein (N protein). 

The M segment is approximately 3680 nucleotides long and encodes a glycoprotein precursor. This precursor is cleaved into two mature glycoproteins known as G1 and G2. 

Puumala virus itself is classified as a serotype within the Orthohantavirus genus. Puumala virus exhibits genetic diversity and different strains or lineages. These strains are often associated with specific geographic regions or host species. Some notable strains of the Puumala virus include: 

  • Sotkamo strain– Isolated in Sotkamo, Finland. It belongs to the Finnish lineage and is one of the most well-studied strains of PUUV. 
  • Kuumala strain– Another Finnish lineage strain of PUUV, isolated in Kuumala, Finland. It is associated with nephropathia epidemica cases in Finland. 
  • Vasteras strain– The Swedish lineage strain of PUUV, isolated in Vasteras, Sweden. 
  • Souris strain– A Swedish lineage strain of PUUV. It is isolated in Souris, Sweden, and associated with nephropathia epidemica cases in the Souris region. 

Increased capillary permeability is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of Puumala virus infections, while it primarily targets the endothelium of various organs. While the virus itself does not directly cause damage to the endothelial cells, it induces significant alterations in both the barrier function of the endothelium and the function of the infected endothelial cells.

Immune mediators contribute to the disruption of endothelial cell junctions, resulting in increased permeability of the capillaries. Consequently, fluid, proteins, and other circulating components leak from the blood vessels & accumulate in the surrounding tissues. 

PUUV triggers a cascade of events that disrupt the normal physiological functions of the endothelium during infestation. These changes can lead to increased vascular permeability, compromised barrier function, and abnormal endothelial cell function. The exact mechanisms by which PUUV achieves these effects are still being investigated. 

The increased capillary permeability and subsequent fluid leakage can profoundly affect the cardiovascular system, causing a drop in blood pressure and potentially leading to shock. The loss of fluid volume from the blood vessels can compromise the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to vital organs, impairing their function. Additionally, the leakage of clotting factors and platelets can contribute to forming small blood clots, further impeding blood flow. 

The TNF2 allele, linked to a high TNF- producing phenotype, is linked to the HLA-B8-DR3 expanded haplotype. During PUUV infection, it may contribute to an exaggerated inflammatory response. 

In PUUV infection, the broader haplotype HLA-B8-DR3 is linked to a poor prognosis. It suggests that those who carry this haplotype may be more prone to having severe symptoms and consequences. HLA-B8 and HLA-DR3 may influence T cells’ presentation of viral antigens, resulting in an exaggerated immune response or decreased virus clearance. 

The HLA-B27 allele, on the other hand, has been linked to a milder phase of PUUV infection. Individuals who inherit this allele may have a more robust immune response to the virus, resulting in a milder and asymptomatic illness.  

TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 are pro-inflammatory cytokines that trigger the immune response and facilitate viral elimination, whereas IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that provides regulatory control for reducing immunopathology and preserving tissue homeostasis. 

During PUUV infection, elevated IL-6 concentrations suggest its function in coordinating the immune response & aiding in the inflammation cascade. IL-10 concentration rises during PUUV infection, implying a counter-regulatory process to limit excessive inflammation and tissue damage. IL-10 aids in immune response modulation, preventing it from being too aggressive and harmful to the host. 

Soluble TNF receptors are proteins that operate as decoy receptors, attaching to TNF- α and blocking it from interacting with cell surface receptors. Their elevated concentrations following PUUV infection suggest a regulatory mechanism to regulate TNF- overproduction and activity. Soluble TNF receptors attenuate the allergic reaction and minimize tissue damage from excess cytokine release by sequestering TNF-α. 

Puumala virus primarily causes a disease known as nephropathia epidemica, which is a mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). The clinical manifestations of Puumala virus infection can vary but typically include the following: 

  • Fever and Headache: The onset of fever & headache is usually abrupt and is accompanied by other flu-like symptoms. 
  • Back and abdominal pain: Patients may experience pain in the lower back and abdomen, often accompanied by tenderness. 
  • Renal symptoms: Nephropathia epidemica is characterized by kidney involvement. Patients may experience proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and decreased urine output. In severe cases, acute kidney injury may occur. 
  • Ocular symptoms: Some patients may develop mild visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light. 
  • Other symptoms: Additional symptoms may include fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal disturbances. 

The immunofluorescence test: In this assay, the PUU Sotkamo strain of the virus, which has been grown in Vero E6 cells, is used as the antigen. The virus cells are fixed onto a microscope slide or a microtiter well. Patient serum is then added to the slide or well, and if specific antibodies against the Puumala virus are present in the serum, they will bind to the viral antigens.

To visualize this binding, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated anti-human IgG antibodies are added, which will specifically bind to the patient’s antibodies. When viewed under a fluorescence microscope, any fluorescence observed indicates the presence of PUUV-specific antibodies. For the direct enzyme immunoassays, the antigens will be diluted in phosphate-buffered saline and coated onto microtiter wells. 

RT-PCR assay: RNA is extracted from the sample and converted into complementary DNA (cDNA) using reverse transcriptase enzyme. Specific primers targeting L and S segment regions like Forward Primer- 5′-GCTGCTTCCATCCATGATC-3′ and Reverse Primer- 5′-TTCCTCTTTGCCACCTTC-3′, which targets the L segment of the PUUV genome, are then used to amplify the viral genetic material through multiple cycles of PCR. The amplified DNA fragments are then analyzed, typically by gel electrophoresis or real-time PCR, to detect the presence of Puumala virus RNA. 

  • Since the bank vole is the reservoir host for the Puumala virus, controlling rodent populations is essential. It can be achieved through rodent-proofing buildings, proper waste management, and reducing potential rodent habitats. 
  • Minimize contact with rodent droppings, urine, and nesting materials. When cleaning up areas with a possible rodent infestation, use protective gloves and masks, and follow appropriate cleaning procedures to avoid inhaling virus-contaminated particles. 
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Puumala virus

Updated : December 21, 2023

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



Puumala virus (PUUV), designated after the Finnish municipality of Puumala, where it was first identified in 1980, has a distinct epidemiology, particularly in Scandinavia & Finland. It has also been reported in other parts of Northern Europe, such as Poland and Russia. The virus is linked to the bank vole (Myodes glareolus), which acts as its reservoir. The disease developed by the Puumala virus, the nephropathia epidemic, has a cyclic pattern that coincides with the population dynamics of bank voles, recurring over three- to four-year cycles. 

Inhaling dust infected with vole droppings causes humans to become infected with the Puumala virus. This mode of transmission emphasizes the significance of virus exposure in the environment. Puumala virus, unlike other ortho hantaviruses, is thought to have potentially deadly effects on its rodent host, contributing to its persistence in the vole community. 

There is a high prevalence of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Europe, with over 10,000 cases identified yearly. The Puumala virus serotype causes roughly 93% of reported Hantavirus infections in Germany. Between 2002-2006, the notified incidence of HFRS ranged from 0.2 to 1.4 per 100,000 people in the province of Baden-Wuerttemberg, situated in southwestern Germany, encompassing an area of 35,742 km2 with a citizenry of 10.8 million.

By the end of March 2007, there had been a significant increase in the number of registered cases in Wuerttemberg, with 86 instances already reported, relative to an average of 12 cases during the previous five years. Puumala virus has been reported as endemic in parts of South & West Germany. 

An Israeli researcher investigating the behavior of bank voles in Finland contracted the Puumala virus in August 2014, resulting in a full breakdown of her immune system. It emphasizes the severity of Puumala virus infestation in humans, especially in people who work in rodent environments. 

Kingdom: Virus 

Phylum: Negarnaviricota 

Class: Ellioviricetes 

Order: Bunyavirales 

Family: Hantaviridae 

Genus: Orthohantavirus 

Species: Puumala virus 

Puumala virus‘s viral genome is made up of three single-stranded RNA segments known as the S (small), L (large), and M (middle) and it contains viral glycoproteins that are embedded in the lipid bilayer. 

PUUV is an enveloped virus with a spherical or pleomorphic shape and size of 80- 120 nm in diameter. 

The most extended segment constitutes the L segment, approximately 6550 nucleotides long. It controls the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) necessary for viral replication. 

The S segment is the smallest, measuring approximately 1830 nucleotides. It contains the genetic information for the nucleocapsid protein (N protein). 

The M segment is approximately 3680 nucleotides long and encodes a glycoprotein precursor. This precursor is cleaved into two mature glycoproteins known as G1 and G2. 

Puumala virus itself is classified as a serotype within the Orthohantavirus genus. Puumala virus exhibits genetic diversity and different strains or lineages. These strains are often associated with specific geographic regions or host species. Some notable strains of the Puumala virus include: 

  • Sotkamo strain– Isolated in Sotkamo, Finland. It belongs to the Finnish lineage and is one of the most well-studied strains of PUUV. 
  • Kuumala strain– Another Finnish lineage strain of PUUV, isolated in Kuumala, Finland. It is associated with nephropathia epidemica cases in Finland. 
  • Vasteras strain– The Swedish lineage strain of PUUV, isolated in Vasteras, Sweden. 
  • Souris strain– A Swedish lineage strain of PUUV. It is isolated in Souris, Sweden, and associated with nephropathia epidemica cases in the Souris region. 

Increased capillary permeability is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of Puumala virus infections, while it primarily targets the endothelium of various organs. While the virus itself does not directly cause damage to the endothelial cells, it induces significant alterations in both the barrier function of the endothelium and the function of the infected endothelial cells.

Immune mediators contribute to the disruption of endothelial cell junctions, resulting in increased permeability of the capillaries. Consequently, fluid, proteins, and other circulating components leak from the blood vessels & accumulate in the surrounding tissues. 

PUUV triggers a cascade of events that disrupt the normal physiological functions of the endothelium during infestation. These changes can lead to increased vascular permeability, compromised barrier function, and abnormal endothelial cell function. The exact mechanisms by which PUUV achieves these effects are still being investigated. 

The increased capillary permeability and subsequent fluid leakage can profoundly affect the cardiovascular system, causing a drop in blood pressure and potentially leading to shock. The loss of fluid volume from the blood vessels can compromise the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to vital organs, impairing their function. Additionally, the leakage of clotting factors and platelets can contribute to forming small blood clots, further impeding blood flow. 

The TNF2 allele, linked to a high TNF- producing phenotype, is linked to the HLA-B8-DR3 expanded haplotype. During PUUV infection, it may contribute to an exaggerated inflammatory response. 

In PUUV infection, the broader haplotype HLA-B8-DR3 is linked to a poor prognosis. It suggests that those who carry this haplotype may be more prone to having severe symptoms and consequences. HLA-B8 and HLA-DR3 may influence T cells’ presentation of viral antigens, resulting in an exaggerated immune response or decreased virus clearance. 

The HLA-B27 allele, on the other hand, has been linked to a milder phase of PUUV infection. Individuals who inherit this allele may have a more robust immune response to the virus, resulting in a milder and asymptomatic illness.  

TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 are pro-inflammatory cytokines that trigger the immune response and facilitate viral elimination, whereas IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that provides regulatory control for reducing immunopathology and preserving tissue homeostasis. 

During PUUV infection, elevated IL-6 concentrations suggest its function in coordinating the immune response & aiding in the inflammation cascade. IL-10 concentration rises during PUUV infection, implying a counter-regulatory process to limit excessive inflammation and tissue damage. IL-10 aids in immune response modulation, preventing it from being too aggressive and harmful to the host. 

Soluble TNF receptors are proteins that operate as decoy receptors, attaching to TNF- α and blocking it from interacting with cell surface receptors. Their elevated concentrations following PUUV infection suggest a regulatory mechanism to regulate TNF- overproduction and activity. Soluble TNF receptors attenuate the allergic reaction and minimize tissue damage from excess cytokine release by sequestering TNF-α. 

Puumala virus primarily causes a disease known as nephropathia epidemica, which is a mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). The clinical manifestations of Puumala virus infection can vary but typically include the following: 

  • Fever and Headache: The onset of fever & headache is usually abrupt and is accompanied by other flu-like symptoms. 
  • Back and abdominal pain: Patients may experience pain in the lower back and abdomen, often accompanied by tenderness. 
  • Renal symptoms: Nephropathia epidemica is characterized by kidney involvement. Patients may experience proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and decreased urine output. In severe cases, acute kidney injury may occur. 
  • Ocular symptoms: Some patients may develop mild visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light. 
  • Other symptoms: Additional symptoms may include fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal disturbances. 

The immunofluorescence test: In this assay, the PUU Sotkamo strain of the virus, which has been grown in Vero E6 cells, is used as the antigen. The virus cells are fixed onto a microscope slide or a microtiter well. Patient serum is then added to the slide or well, and if specific antibodies against the Puumala virus are present in the serum, they will bind to the viral antigens.

To visualize this binding, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated anti-human IgG antibodies are added, which will specifically bind to the patient’s antibodies. When viewed under a fluorescence microscope, any fluorescence observed indicates the presence of PUUV-specific antibodies. For the direct enzyme immunoassays, the antigens will be diluted in phosphate-buffered saline and coated onto microtiter wells. 

RT-PCR assay: RNA is extracted from the sample and converted into complementary DNA (cDNA) using reverse transcriptase enzyme. Specific primers targeting L and S segment regions like Forward Primer- 5′-GCTGCTTCCATCCATGATC-3′ and Reverse Primer- 5′-TTCCTCTTTGCCACCTTC-3′, which targets the L segment of the PUUV genome, are then used to amplify the viral genetic material through multiple cycles of PCR. The amplified DNA fragments are then analyzed, typically by gel electrophoresis or real-time PCR, to detect the presence of Puumala virus RNA. 

  • Since the bank vole is the reservoir host for the Puumala virus, controlling rodent populations is essential. It can be achieved through rodent-proofing buildings, proper waste management, and reducing potential rodent habitats. 
  • Minimize contact with rodent droppings, urine, and nesting materials. When cleaning up areas with a possible rodent infestation, use protective gloves and masks, and follow appropriate cleaning procedures to avoid inhaling virus-contaminated particles. 

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