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The HEALTH | May-June. 2026
Hantavirus threats demand vigilance
• Rodent-borne viruses remain a growing public health concern amid changing environmental and urban conditions.
• Persistent cough and breathing difficulties may signal life-threatening Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome progression.
• Early clinical assessment remains critical for improving recovery outcomes after potential exposure.
BY DR KAM SAN DHIT
SINCE the 2019 pandemic, public perception of infectious diseases has undergone a significant transformation. While some segments of the population maintain heightened vigilance regarding hygiene, others have developed a degree of " information fatigue," often relying on natural immunity.
However, the global healthcare landscape has shifted permanently, necessitating a fact-based approach to emerging viral threats.
The recent Hantavirus outbreaks reported globally serve as a critical case study in modern infectious disease management and community preparedness.
THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE
In May 2026, international health authorities reported Hantavirus clusters linked to travel and maritime environments. While these events originated outside Malaysia, the relevance to the local context is significant.
In Malaysia, Leptospirosis( kencing tikus) is an endemic concern. Hantavirus presents a similar public health challenge as both are rodent-borne.
As urbanisation and climate shifts alter rodent habitats, the risk of human exposure to contaminated " micro-dust "( saliva, urine, and droppings) increases.
Understanding this virus is essential for early detection and preventing local transmission.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Hantavirus typically manifests in two distinct stages. Early
MYTH vs FACT: UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS
» Myth: Hantavirus is spread from person to person like COVID-19.
» Myth: You can only get infected if a rat bites you.
» Myth: Hantavirus is the same as Leptospirosis.
MYTH
FACT
» Fact: Most Hantavirus strains are not contagious between humans. Infection occurs almost exclusively through contact with rodent waste or inhaling aerosolised dust from contaminated areas.
» Fact: Bites are rare. The most common route of infection is breathing in " micro-dust " while cleaning dusty storerooms, attics, or abandoned buildings.
» Fact: They share similar hosts( rats), but Leptospirosis is bacterial and treatable with antibiotics. Hantavirus is viral, requires different diagnostic markers, and does not respond to antibiotics.
Family Doctor Kam San Dhit, Alpro Clinic
» Myth: " Natural immunity " is enough to protect against Hantavirus.
» Fact: Hantavirus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome( HPS), a severe respiratory illness that can affect even healthy individuals. Medical intervention is necessary.