The World Health Organization has reported eight confirmed cases of hantavirus, including three deaths.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are urging vigilance, particularly among those in affected areas.
Speaking at a media conference, WHO Director Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the virus is a result of contact with rodents.
“Five of the eight cases have been confirmed as hantavirus, and the other three are suspected. Hantaviruses are a group of viruses carried by rodents that can cause severe disease in humans. People are usually infected through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings, or saliva.”
He explained that while additional cases may still be identified, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. However, he stressed that the overall public health risk remains low at this time.
“Given the incubation period of the virus, which can be up to six weeks, it’s possible that more cases may be reported. While this is a serious incident, WHO assesses the public health risk as low. It also shows why the International Health Regulations exist and how they work.”