Current assessments indicate a low level of threat, supported by Saudi Arabia’s early warning systems.
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 is coordinating with international health organisations and tracking developments related to the reported cases.
Weqaya said current assessments indicate a low overall threat level, supported by the Kingdom’s early warning systems, epidemiological surveillance capabilities, border monitoring measures, and food and environmental health controls.
The authority said Hantavirus is a rare viral disease that can become severe in some cases. It explained that the virus is typically transmitted to humans through exposure to infected rodents’ urine, saliva, or droppings, or by inhaling contaminated particles.
It added that human-to-human transmission remains uncommon and 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 travellers during the busy summer travel season.
The authority urged travellers to follow official health guidance, check preventive requirements before travel, maintain food and water safety, practise good personal hygiene, avoid contact with rodents and contaminated areas, and ensure adequate health coverage while abroad.
It also called on the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumours or unverified reports, adding that any further public health updates will be issued if necessary.
