Experts assure the public that hantavirus spreads differently than COVID-19 and is unlikely to cause a pandemic
Category: Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) is addressing rising global concerns over a recent hantavirus outbreak, emphasizing that it does not spread in the same way as COVID-19. During a press conference on Thursday evening, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, Director of Epidemic and Pandemic Management at WHO, stated, "This is not covid, nor influenza, it spreads very differently." The discussion comes as health officials monitor a cluster of cases linked to a cruise ship, where no symptomatic passengers or crew are currently onboard.
Dr. Van Kerkhove explained that hantavirus primarily spreads through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, with human-to-human transmission being extremely rare and only possible through prolonged close contact. This contrasts sharply with COVID-19, which is highly contagious and can easily spread in crowded settings. "In past outbreaks of Andes virus, human-to-human transmission primarily occurred among close contacts," she added.
Dr. Abdirahman Mahamud, Director at the Alert and Response Coordination Department of WHO's Emergencies Health Programme, noted that a similar situation occurred in Argentina between 2018 and 2019, where a symptomatic individual at a social gathering led to multiple infections. He indicated that the current outbreak resembles that scenario, highlighting the importance of contact tracing and isolation to break the chain of transmission. "If we follow public health measures, we can break this chain of transmission. It doesn't need to be a large epidemic," Dr. Mahamud said.
The current outbreak is linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus, which is the only variant known to transmit between humans. This strain was responsible for localized outbreaks in the past, often in confined spaces where individuals interact closely. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, acknowledged that the incubation period for the Andes virus can be up to six weeks, which means more cases may emerge as health authorities continue to monitor the situation. "This is a serious incident, but WHO assesses the public health risk as low," he stated.
Historically, hantavirus outbreaks are localized and typically do not result in widespread transmission. The main concern remains the zoonotic nature of the virus, which is primarily transmitted from rodents to humans. The WHO has emphasized the importance of public health measures to manage these outbreaks effectively, underscoring that localized outbreaks can be controlled with appropriate interventions.
As health officials continue to assess the situation, the WHO is urging individuals to remain vigilant and adhere to public health guidelines. The organization is actively involved in contact tracing and monitoring efforts to prevent any potential spread. Dr. Van Kerkhove reiterated, "This is not the same situation we faced six years ago. It does not spread in the same way," reinforcing the unique characteristics of hantavirus compared to COVID-19.
Public health experts are closely monitoring the outbreak, and WHO plans to provide updates as the situation evolves. The organization is committed to ensuring that health systems are prepared to respond effectively, should more cases arise. With the right measures in place, officials remain optimistic that the outbreak can be contained and will not escalate into a larger epidemic.
In light of the current outbreak, health authorities are also reminding the public to maintain good hygiene practices, especially in areas where rodent populations are prevalent. Awareness campaigns are expected to be rolled out to educate communities about the risks associated with hantavirus and the importance of avoiding contact with rodent droppings and urine.
As the situation develops, WHO will continue to collaborate with national health authorities to monitor the outbreak and implement necessary public health measures. The organization aims to keep the public informed and reassured about the risks associated with hantavirus, emphasizing that with proper precautions, the outbreak can be managed effectively.
Looking ahead, health experts are optimistic that the measures taken will mitigate the impact of this outbreak. The WHO is set to hold another briefing next week to provide updates on the situation and any new developments in the response efforts.