Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Public Health Authority (Weqaya) said it is closely monitoring reports of Hantavirus infections linked to a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, while stressing that the likelihood of the virus reaching Saudi Arabia remains “very low”.
In a statement, the authority said it was coordinating with international health organizations and following developments related to reported cases.
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Weqaya said current assessments indicate a low overall level of threat due to the Kingdom’s early warning systems, epidemiological surveillance capabilities, border monitoring procedures and food and environmental health controls.
The authority said Hantavirus is a rare viral disease that can become severe in some cases. He explained that the virus is usually transmitted to humans through exposure to the urine, saliva or feces of infected rodents, or by inhaling contaminated particles.
Human-to-human transmission remains uncommon, the authority added, noting that it has only been documented in limited cases involving specific strains of the virus and prolonged close contact.
Weqaya said the advisory is part of broader efforts to raise health awareness among travelers during the busy summer travel season.
The authority urged travelers to follow official health guidelines, review preventive requirements before travel, maintain food and water safety, practice personal hygiene, avoid contact with rodents and contaminated areas, and ensure adequate health coverage while abroad.
He also urged the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumors or unverified reports, adding that any further public health developments will be notified if necessary.
