- Data on the epidemiological situation of hantavirosis in humans in Belgium are presented in annual reports (available only in Dutch or French). You can find these at the bottom of this webpage under ‘Other publications’.
- In Belgium, epidemic years alternate with gap years.. During the epidemic years, the number of infections increases to more than 1 case per 100,000 inhabitants. In a non-epidemic gap year, the incidence in Belgium fluctuates at around 0.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The vast majority of infections occur in men. This is probably related to the occupations with an increased risk of hantavirosis, which are mostly performed by men. Most cases in Belgium are reported in the south of the country.
- In Europe, the rate of hantavirosis infections has been between 0.4 and 0.8 cases per 100,000 people in recent years. Almost all infections (97%) are caused by the Puumala virus. Most cases are registered in Scandinavia.