WHO: Hantavirus Outbreak Nearing Its End

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus shared the latest developments on the hantavirus outbreak. Ghebreyesus stated that the situation is stable and the outbreak is nearing its end, including cases found on the Dutch-flagged "MV Hondius" passenger ship.Ghebreyesus reported that all contacts of the initial cases detected in South Africa have completed their follow-up processes and no additional cases have been reported. He also noted that quarantine and follow-up procedures for individuals in Spain and the Netherlands, including the "MV Hondius" crew, have been completed. As of June 25, 30 contacts remain under follow-up.Ghebreyesus indicated that the total number of cases remains at 13, with three resulting in fatalities. "The situation is stable, and the outbreak is nearing its end," he said, thanking all countries involved in the response for their cooperation.Hantavirus is primarily spread through rodents. The virus can be transmitted through inhalation of air contaminated with the rodents' droppings, urine, or saliva, or through bites or scratches from infected rodents. It can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle pain.The disease can also lead to respiratory failure and, in some cases, hemorrhaging and kidney failure. Ghebreyesus stated, "We thank all countries involved in the response for their cooperation. The situation is stable, and the outbreak is nearing its end."