WHO urges preparations for a possible increase in hantavirus cases
World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on countries around the world to step up their preparedness for a potential increase in hantavirus cases. He said it is important to strengthen monitoring and response systems in advance.
The Guardian reported this on May 13.
According to the WHO chief, new outbreaks of the disease have been recorded in a number of countries in recent weeks, and health systems must step up monitoring and preparedness for the potential spread of the virus.
He emphasized that this is not currently a global threat on the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the situation requires increased attention from national governments and health services.
“At this point, there are no signs that we are seeing the start of a larger outbreak. But the situation could change, and given the virus’s long incubation period, it is quite possible that we will see more cases in the coming weeks,” said Ghebreyesus.
Hantavirus is transmitted to humans primarily through contact with rodents or their waste. The disease can cause severe damage to the respiratory system and kidneys.
According to The Guardian, the WHO is particularly concerned about the rising number of cases in some regions of Asia and South America, where epidemiological surveillance has already been stepped up.
The organization also recommends that countries more actively inform the public about prevention methods, including adherence to hygiene standards and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals.
According to the publication, the WHO has recommended that governments update their response plans for infectious disease outbreaks and verify the readiness of hospitals and laboratories.
It suggests paying special attention to the early detection of infections and international information sharing to prevent the widespread spread of the virus.
You might be interested in: The Health Center has provided advice on how to protect yourself from hantavirus.
The WHO director-general noted that hantavirus is not a new COVID.
Hantavirus outbreak: experts assess the risks of a global pandemic.
