Uganda's Health Ministry Assures Public on Hantavirus Threat

Uganda’s Ministry of Health, alongside One Health scientists, has stepped in to allay public fears following reports of Hantavirus cases in other countries. Officials maintain that there is no immediate danger to Uganda, emphasizing the virus’s specific transmission requirements.

Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, Director of Public Health at the Ministry, stated that Hantavirus is “not of concern to us in Uganda.” He explained that the virus has a well-understood transmission method, requiring vectors and contamination of food sources. This, he noted, limits its potential to spread rapidly within the country.

Hantaviruses, first identified in a rodent in South Korea in 1978, are carried by rodents and can cause serious illness in humans. While recent cases have been reported among travelers on an international cruise ship, with some fatalities, Ugandan health officials are closely monitoring the situation.

Dr. Allan Muruta, Commissioner for Epidemiology and Surveillance, assured the public that the risk remains very low. He pointed out that Hantavirus has existed for centuries and that the current international cases do not indicate an outbreak in affected regions, merely isolated incidents.

Experts from Makerere University also weighed in, with Professor Samuel Majalija stating that a global pandemic is unlikely, especially since the current outbreak appears contained. He added that Hantavirus has not been identified in Uganda.

Globally, Hantavirus infections are relatively uncommon. Prevention primarily involves reducing contact with rodents. Recommendations include maintaining clean living and working spaces, sealing entry points for rodents, storing food securely, and using safe cleaning practices for areas with rodent contamination, such as dampening affected areas before cleaning and avoiding dry sweeping or vacuuming.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/hantavirus-uganda-s-health-ministry-calms-public-fears-5450820