Summary report

Using archived feline serum samples submitted to APHA for routine post‑vaccination rabies testing, a total of 693 feline sera were screened for hantavirus antibodies. Thirteen samples (1.87%) tested positive for Puumala hantavirus (PUUV) IgG (OD >1.0), while 19 (2.74%) were classified as borderline (OD 0.85–0.99). These findings indicate low‑level exposure to PUUV or antigenically related hantaviruses among domestic cats in Great Britain. Additional serological testing is needed to confirm seropositivity and the causative hantavirus species. The low seroprevalence contrasts with earlier reports of higher feline exposure, suggesting reduced spillover risk to cats, and by extension humans, than previously proposed. Ongoing serosurveillance, now supported by the newly developed in-house ELISA can help identify exposed or infected cats and guide targeted wildlife reservoir studies.

Alongside ELISA development, I had the opportunity to gain hands on experience with Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA), a diagnostic and research assay routinely used by the hosting institute to serotype causative hantaviruses in human cases. To further continue and progress our research and diagnostic capabilities at APHA, I was fortunate enough to produce PUUV nucleoprotein using a baculovirus insect cell system, pioneered by the team in Helsinki. This will enable us to transfer this technique to APHA and produce additional hantavirus nucleoproteins to continue ELISA testing and serosurveillance in Great Britain.

I am thankful for the opportunity from EOHA which allowed me to represent APHA, build collaborative relationships with The University of Helsinki, and to have developed my skill set as an early career researcher.

The Helsinki Team! Left to Right: Dr Jussi Hepojoki, Dr Tomas Strandin, Ms Cienna Buckner, and Keeler Arrowsmith