[The cross and unspecific reactions in serological examination for antibodies against hantavirus Puumala].

A serological survey of 78 zoologist capturing small wild rodents in their environment, 9 patients with suspected hantavirus infections and 21 patients with acute renal dysfunction for antibodies to hantaviruses was conducted in Poland. Survey was done by the indirect ELISA with Puumala and Hantaan virus antigens. Out of the 78 mammalogists 15 were seropositive for hantavirus Puumala IgG without history of clinical illness. Analysis of relation between reactive zoologist's sera IgG with antigens of Puumala and Hantaan viruses suggests that these persons had contact with Puumala/Tula viruses rather than with Dobrava/Saaremaa complex. Analysis of results of IgG and IgM presence by ELISA test have confirmed correct interpretation criteria proposed by manufacturer for serological diagnosis of suspected hantavirus infection. Both cross and unspecific reactions in the some sera have been observed. Low number of patients with suspected hantavirus infection suggests the existence of underestimation in registration of data collected in Poland and existence of non-diagnosed infections with hantaviring.