Risk of hantavirus spread
The current risk of hantavirus spread is low, the World Health Organization’s Office in Azerbaijan stated in a response to APA’s inquiry, that the WHO is working on rapid response measures together with several countries within the framework of the International Health Regulations. The main focus is on patient treatment, safety, and preventing further spread of the virus.
“People usually become infected with hantavirus through contact with infected rodents, particularly through their urine, feces, or saliva. In some cases, inhaling contaminated dust may also cause infection. In rare cases, rodent bites may transmit the virus. Cleaning enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces, agricultural and forestry work, or staying in areas where rodents are present are considered risk factors for infection.”
It was noted that human-to-human transmission of the virus is very rare and has only been observed with the Andes virus found in the Americas. When such transmission occurs, it usually happens among family members or partners, particularly during prolonged and close contact in the early stages of the illness.
Current hantavirus situation in neighboring and regional countries
It was reported that the WHO has informed 12 countries regarding citizens who were on the ship: “These include Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The WHO is also assisting in tracing individuals who were on a flight connected to South Africa: “International contact tracing is ongoing. Passengers have been informed and asked to report if they develop any symptoms.”
The WHO emphasized the importance of rapidly identifying and managing suspected cases through testing, treatment, and, if necessary, isolation: “The WHO is also closely cooperating with Argentina, which has experience in managing such viruses, in order to better understand the situation and strengthen response measures.”
Are there laboratory capabilities in Azerbaijan to diagnose this virus?
It was also stated that laboratories in Azerbaijan dealing with both human and animal health have the capability to test for hantavirus using the PCR method: “The WHO is also cooperating with laboratories across Europe to ensure reliable testing for the Andes virus.
If necessary, samples may be safely sent to specialized WHO reference laboratories for confirmation. The WHO will soon publish updated laboratory guidelines to support testing processes across the region.”
Global risk related to hantavirus
It was noted that the WHO considers the overall global risk to be low: “For people on the ship, however, the risk is assessed as moderate. Hantavirus does not spread easily. The virus is usually transmitted from rodents to humans, and human-to-human transmission occurs very rarely. Thousands of infection cases are recorded worldwide every year, but this number is not considered high compared to the global population.
The situation on ships is being carefully managed in order to reduce risks.”
Treatment of hantavirus
Currently, there is neither a vaccine nor a specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus.
“Treatment is mainly focused on careful monitoring of patients and treating complications involving the lungs, heart, or kidneys. Early medical assistance may improve outcomes. People should not rely on unconfirmed treatment methods, as these may delay proper medical care. If you think you have been exposed to the virus, contact your local health authority for advice,” the WHO Office in Azerbaijan said.
What symptoms require immediate medical attention?
The information noted that symptoms usually begin between one and eight weeks after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, which may rapidly worsen. Other possible symptoms include headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
WHO’s appeal to the public
What should people do under the current circumstances?
“People should continue their normal daily activities. They should follow the recommendations of public health authorities and obtain information from reliable sources. They should also avoid spreading rumors or unverified information,” the WHO Office in Azerbaijan stated.
According to information provided by the Ministry of Health, no suspected or confirmed cases of hantavirus infection have been recorded in Azerbaijan. The ministry noted that hantavirus is not considered endemic for Azerbaijan and that the current epidemiological situation indicates a low risk of the virus spreading.
It should be noted that the first hantavirus symptoms were recorded in an elderly couple from the Netherlands who were on a cruise ship, and they are among the three people who have died so far. Despite this, the location of the initial infection has still not been determined.
