The recent confirmation by the World Health Organization (WHO) about the ability of a variant of hantavirus to transmit between humans once again aroused concern in different countries.
Although specialists stress that this is not a scenario comparable to COVID-19, the news raised many questions about how this virus is actually transmitted and what precautions should be taken in everyday life.
The variant of most concern today is the so-called “Andes strain”, detected mainly in South America and known to be one of the few forms of hantavirus with a proven ability to spread between people.
Can hantavirus be transmitted between humans?
Yes, but there is a very important detail: not all hantaviruses have this capacity.
For years, contagion was mainly associated with contact with infected rodents, especially through the inhalation of particles from urine, saliva or dry feces.
However, different studies and outbreaks investigated in South America showed that the Andes variant can also be transmitted between people under certain circumstances.
According to specialists, human contagion usually requires:
- close and prolonged contact,
- close coexistence,
- secretion exchange,
- direct exposure to saliva or respiratory fluids.
This means that it does not behave like other highly contagious respiratory viruses.
Why experts say it’s not a new pandemic
After the WHO’s confirmation, many began to wonder if a situation similar to the one experienced with the coronavirus could occur.
But most epidemiologists agree that the likelihood of a global pandemic is extremely low.
The reasons are several:
- the virus is not easily transmitted,
- requires close contact,
- it does not usually generate large chains of contagion,
- and people usually develop noticeable symptoms relatively quickly.
For now, specialists believe that the main risk continues to be in localized outbreaks and not in a sustained global expansion.
The initial symptoms that are often mistaken for the flu
One of the problems with hantavirus is that the first symptoms can look like a common flu.
The most common are:
- fever,
- muscle pain,
- intense tiredness,
- headache,
- chills,
- nausea.
In some cases, the disease can quickly progress to severe respiratory complications, causing shortness of breath and severe lung involvement.
That is why it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention for compatible symptoms, especially after exposure to risk areas or close contact with infected people.
The care recommended by specialists
Although human-to-human transmission generated alarm, experts stress that many preventive measures remain simple and effective.
Avoid exposure to rodents
The main reservoir of the virus continues to be the wild mouse.
That is why it is recommended:
- keep sheds and warehouses clean,
- sealing holes and entrances,
- avoid accumulation of garbage or wood,
- Store food in closed containers.
The most dangerous mistake when cleaning enclosed places
One of the biggest risks occurs when cleaning spaces where rodents may have been present.
Specialists recommend never:
- dry sweeping,
- Kicking up dust,
- Use a common vacuum cleaner in contaminated areas.
Before cleaning, the ideal is:
- Ventilate the environment for at least 30 minutes.
- Spray water with bleach.
- Clean with a damp cloth.
This helps prevent contaminated particles from being suspended in the air.
Should cans and containers be washed?
Yes. Although many people don’t pay attention to it, washing the tops of cans before drinking is a recommended hygiene measure.
During storage and transport, cans can accumulate dirt or come into contact with contaminated surfaces.
It is also advised:
- washing containers stored for a long time,
- avoid consuming exposed foods,
- Do not leave water or food uncovered in tanks or sheds.
What is currently of most concern
What keeps specialists attentive is not only the existence of the hantavirus, but the fact that some variants demonstrated the capacity for human transmission.
Even so, the WHO and different international experts insist that the current behavior of the virus is far from the level of contagion observed in recent pandemics.
The main recommendation remains the same: prevention, hygiene and early care for compatible symptoms.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and awareness-raising purposes. Information on hantavirus and its transmission is based on recent reports and general public health recommendations. In the event of compatible symptoms or medical doubts, it is recommended to immediately consult health professionals and follow the instructions of the official health authorities.