Hantavirus: New Global Threat Carried by Rats Requires Vigilance

Kuala Lumpur — Public awareness of infectious diseases has heightened significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, with many people now more attentive to hygiene and infection risks. However, the global health landscape faces a new emerging threat: Hantavirus.

In May 2026, international health authorities reported several clusters of the virus linked to tourism and maritime environments abroad. Although these incidents occurred outside Malaysia, they remain relevant to local public health, given the ongoing risk of exposure to rodent-borne diseases like leptospirosis (commonly known as “rat urine disease”).

Dr. Kam San Dhit, a family doctor at Klinik Alpro, emphasized the need for fact-based and science-driven understanding to enhance community preparedness against emerging viral threats.

“Hantavirus is categorized as a rodent-borne disease. Humans can be exposed to contaminated airborne particles from the animal’s saliva, urine, and droppings,” he explained.

Infection typically progresses in two phases. Early symptoms include high fever, severe muscle pain (especially in the thighs, hips, and back), and extreme fatigue. If it advances to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), patients may suddenly experience shortness of breath and persistent coughing due to fluid buildup in the lungs.

Diagnosis involves assessing the patient’s exposure history — such as time spent in storage areas, garages, or attics — along with laboratory tests to detect low platelet counts. Confirmatory tests include PCR, antibody testing, and chest X-rays to identify early signs of pulmonary edema.

There is no specific treatment for Hantavirus, making early clinical evaluation critical for better recovery outcomes. Dr. Kam advised individuals with suspicious symptoms or potential exposure to rodent droppings to seek immediate medical attention from a family doctor.

Effective Prevention Measures

The most effective prevention strategy focuses on environmental management through “wet cleaning” methods to avoid aerosolizing the virus:

• Do not sweep or vacuum areas with rodent droppings, as this can spread viral particles into the air.
• Instead, spray the contaminated area with a disinfectant or a bleach-water mixture, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth.

Maintaining cleanliness and controlling rodent populations are key to minimizing risks, especially in homes and public spaces.

As global attention on Hantavirus grows, experts like Dr. Kam stress proactive awareness and hygiene practices to safeguard public health against this rodent-borne threat