Monday, June 29, 2026

World News

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WHO says Hantavirus outbreak nearing end as no new cases emerge

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the recent Hantavirus outbreak is nearing its end, with no new infections reported among monitored contacts in multiple countries.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Monday, June 29, 2026

New York: World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the Hantavirus outbreak is approaching its conclusion following successful monitoring of contacts linked to confirmed cases.

In a post on the social media platform X, Ghebreyesus said all contacts of the two cases detected in South Africa had completed their follow-up period without any additional infections being recorded.

He added that quarantine and follow-up procedures had also been completed for all contacts in Spain and the Netherlands, including crew members aboard the ship MV Hondus.

As of June 25, 30 people remained under medical observation, while the total number of confirmed cases stood at 13, including three deaths.

The WHO chief said the situation remains stable, praising the coordinated efforts of the affected countries in containing the outbreak.

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially life-threatening virus transmitted primarily through contact with infected rodents, including mice and rats. It can cause severe illness in humans and requires prompt medical attention.

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