Saudi Arabia’s Public Health Authority (Weqaya) said it is closely monitoring reports of Hantavirus infections associated with a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, according to the Saudi Gazette.
The authority also assured that the probability of the virus reaching the Kingdom remains “very low.”
Weqaya noted that it is working in close coordination with international health organizations, stressing that current risk assessments indicate a low level of threat.
This assessment is driven by the Kingdom’s robust early warning systems, advanced epidemiological surveillance capabilities, border health monitoring, as well as food and environmental safety controls.
The authority also described Hantavirus as a rare viral disease that may develop into a severe illness in certain cases.
The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or exposure to their urine, saliva, and droppings, especially through inhalation of contaminated airborne particles.
The authority clarified that human-to-human transmission remains rare and has only been documented in limited cases involving specific viral strains and prolonged close contact.
Weqaya urged travelers to adhere to official health guidelines, review preventive requirements prior to travel and maintain strict food and water safety standards.
They are also advised to practice good personal hygiene, avoid contact with rodents or potentially contaminated areas, and ensure they have appropriate health insurance coverage throughout their travels.
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