HFRSLast updated 2025-08-01
Hantavirus in Japan
Hantavirus infection is rare in Japan. Historical cases have been linked to laboratory-rat exposure and port-city outbreaks. National surveillance is conducted by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.
Cumulative Cases
150
Deaths
4
CFR
2.7%
Global Rank
#16
by case count
Circulating Strains
- ●Seoul virus (SEOV)
Primary syndrome: Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
Reservoir Species
- • Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Most Affected Regions
- • Historical lab and port-city clusters
Country-specific Risk & Prevention
Laboratory workers handling rodents follow biosafety protocols that have effectively suppressed outbreaks since the 1990s.
General prevention: see symptoms and prevention guidance →
Field Notes
Seoul virus. Rare, primarily laboratory-associated cases historically.