WHO chief warns world to prepare for new hantavirus cases
WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (Photo: from open sources)
The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has called on countries to prepare for a possible increase in hantavirus cases, according to The Guardian.
According to the WHO chief, new outbreaks of the disease have been recorded in several countries in recent weeks, and health systems need to strengthen monitoring and preparation 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 medical services.
"At the moment, there is no sign that we are seeing the start of a larger outbreak, but of course the situation could change and, given the long incubation period of the virus, it’s possible we might see more cases in the coming weeks," said Ghebreyesus.
What is known about the virus
Hantavirus is transmitted to humans primarily through contact with rodents or their droppings. The disease can cause severe damage to the respiratory system and kidneys.
According to The Guardian, the WHO is particularly concerned about the increase in cases in some regions of Asia and South America, where epidemiological control has already been strengthened.
The organization also recommends that countries more actively inform the public about prevention methods, including observing sanitary norms and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals.
WHO calls for enhanced preparedness
According to the article, the WHO has recommended that governments update their infectious disease outbreak response plans, as well as check the readiness of hospitals and laboratories.
Particular attention is proposed to be paid to early detection of infections and international information sharing to prevent the large-scale spread of the virus.
