Rwanda steps up surveillance as global Hantavirus alerts grow

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) says it is closely monitoring the global situation surrounding Hantavirus, a rodent-borne disease that has recently triggered alerts in several countries, while confirming that no cases have been reported in Rwanda.

In a statement issued on Sunday, May 10, 2026, Rwanda Biomedical Centre said it is maintaining heightened surveillance in collaboration with international health partners as the outbreak continues to draw attention across different regions.

The alert follows reports of infections and fatalities linked to Hantavirus among passengers aboard the cruise vessel M/V Hondius, which had departed Ushuaia in southern Argentina on a voyage to Antarctica. The incident has prompted closer monitoring by global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO), due to its unusual and multi-country implications.

RBC explained that Hantavirus is transmitted primarily through contact with rodents, especially mice, or through inhalation of particles contaminated with their urine, droppings, or saliva. Infection can also occur via contaminated food or surfaces.

The strain identified in the current outbreak, Andes virus, is the only known variant capable of limited human-to-human transmission, though this remains rare and typically requires prolonged close contact.

Early symptoms include high fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal distress, with severe cases progressing to respiratory complications. Health officials caution that these signs may resemble malaria, influenza, or COVID-19, making early medical consultation essential.

RBC reaffirmed that Rwanda has not recorded any suspected or confirmed cases, but said preparedness systems—including surveillance at points of entry and laboratory readiness—have been reinforced to ensure rapid detection and response if needed.

Authorities continue to coordinate with global partners to track developments and mitigate any potential public health risk associated with the disease.