Responding to Hantavirus: Advancing Rapid Molecular Detection

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Why the 2026 Andes Virus Incident Matters

Recent developments in the global epidemiology of hantavirus—particularly the Andes virus—have elevated concern among public health organizations and research laboratories worldwide.

Once considered a regional zoonotic risk, Andes virus is now drawing international attention due to documented human-to-human transmission and a series of travel-linked cases, including a notable 2026 cruise-associated cluster.

Hantaviruses are rodent-borne pathogens that can cause severe disease in humans. In the Americas, infection may lead to hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS), which carries a reported case fatality rate of up to 38%.

Early symptoms are often nonspecific and may include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches

As disease progresses, patients may develop:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Respiratory distress
• Rapid clinical deterioration

Because symptoms overlap with influenza and other respiratory infections, molecular testing is critical for accurate detection and monitoring.

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The Need for Rapid, Reliable Detection

Global health authorities, including the WHO, emphasize RT-PCR as a key method for hantavirus laboratory confirmation, alongside serology and immunohistochemistry.

The increase in travel-linked cases highlights the growing need for:

• Rapid molecular detection
• Scalable workflows
• Broad laboratory compatibility
• Reliable assay performance

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Our Rapid Response Solution

In response to the 2026 incident, a molecular research solution was rapidly developed to support laboratories investigating hantavirus. Within days of the latest Andes virus sequence release, a new assay (AP7D4WY) was designed and optimized to align fully with the current incident strain.

Two RUO assay options are now available to support continuity and flexibility:

• AP7D4WY: A newly designed, sequence-optimized assay aligned with the latest 2026 Andes virus strain and recommended for current incident detection
• APU7ANW: An established, reference-based assay offering broad strain coverage and maintained sensitivity

This dual-assay approach enables laboratories to balance immediate incident responsiveness with broader surveillance needs. Early evaluation of this new assay is underway in U.S. public health laboratories, with results expected shortly.

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Assay Comparison

Feature	AP7D4WY (new design)	APU7ANW (existing design)
Design Type	Sequence-optimized design	Reference-based design
Coverage	Aligned to current 2026 strain	Broad coverage across known strains
Positioning	Recommended for current incident detection	Suitable for broader surveillance
Performance	Optimized for latest 2026 Andes virus sequence	Maintains sensitivity despite minor mismatch
Best Use	Emerging incident response	Established strain monitoring

AP7D4WY is the recommended option for current incident detection because it is aligned to the latest publicly available Andes virus sequence.

APU7ANW remains a valuable option for broader hantavirus surveillance and continuity testing workflows.

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A Scalable RT-qPCR Workflow

The workflow is designed for ease of implementation and scalability across multiple laboratory environments.

Our solution is built around a streamlined, end-to-end qPCR workflow designed for ease of adoption and scalability:

1. Sample receipt and preparation
2. RNA extraction using kits such as the MagMAX™ Prime Viral/Pathogen system 
3. Real-time RT-qPCR using optimized master mixes such as TaqPath™ 1-Step RT-qPCR Master Mix, CG or TaqPath™ DuraPlex™ 1-Step RT-qPCR Master Mix as an option for multiplex workflows
4. Custom TaqMan Gene Expression assays  including newly developed hantavirus-specific designs (e.g. AP7D4WY) that target the Andes orthohantavirus M segment (glycoprotein gene)
5. Data analysis for qualitative detection or viral load quantification

The workflow incorporates internal and positive controls to help ensure reliability and reproducibility, and it is designed for ease of implementation and scalability across multiple laboratory environments. It is compatible with a wide range of real-time PCR instruments, enabling laboratories to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure and minimal disruption.

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Supporting Laboratory Readiness

To support rapid deployment, key reagents—including assays, extraction kits, controls, and master mixes—have been proactively manufactured and made available for ordering.

Automated and manual sample preparation options are available to support:

• High-throughput testing laboratories
• Budget-conscious laboratories
• Research-focused workflows
• Flexible operational requirements

In addition, Thermo Fisher Scientific has collaborated with APHL to provide research kits to members to facilitate rapid workflow setup.

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Enabling a Coordinated Global Response

The speed of this response reflects collaboration across R&D, assay design, operations, regulatory, supply chain, and commercial teams.

From sequence release to assay availability, the timeline demonstrates the importance of rapid scientific collaboration in addressing emerging infectious disease threats.

As the situation evolves, continued research and surveillance will remain essential to improving hantavirus detection strategies and incident preparedness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Reference

CDC Hantavirus Information:

https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/about/index.html

For Research Use Only (RUO). Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

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