By Newsworld Health Desk

Friday, May 8, 2026

Health experts are raising awareness about Hantavirus, a rare but potentially deadly viral disease mainly spread through contact with infected rodents and their waste.

Although the virus is more commonly reported in parts of Asia, Europe, and the Americas, public health specialists say Nigerians should still understand how the disease spreads and how to reduce exposure risks, especially in areas with poor sanitation and rodent infestations.

What Is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus refers to a group of viruses carried mostly by rodents such as rats and mice. Humans can become infected when they come into contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.

Different strains of the virus can cause severe illnesses affecting the lungs or kidneys.

The two major illnesses linked to hantavirus are:

• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) – affects the lungs and breathing
• Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) – affects the kidneys and blood vessels

How Does Hantavirus Spread?

According to health authorities, the virus mainly spreads through:

1. Breathing contaminated air

People may inhale tiny virus particles released into the air when sweeping or cleaning areas contaminated with rodent droppings or urine.

2. Contact with infected rodents

Touching rodents, their nests, saliva, urine, or feces can expose individuals to the virus.

3. Rodent bites

Though uncommon, bites from infected rodents may transmit the disease.

4. Contaminated food or surfaces

Food exposed to rodent waste can also increase infection risks.

Experts note that most hantavirus strains are not easily spread from person to person.

Signs And Symptoms

Symptoms can appear between one and eight weeks after exposure.

Early symptoms include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting

Severe symptoms may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Persistent coughing
• Low blood pressure
• Kidney problems

Medical experts warn that severe hantavirus infections can become life-threatening if treatment is delayed.

How To Reduce Your Risk

Health professionals recommend the following preventive measures:

Keep rodents away

• Seal holes in homes
• Store food properly
• Dispose of waste correctly
• Keep surroundings clean

Clean safely

• Avoid sweeping dry rodent droppings
• Spray disinfectant before cleaning contaminated areas
• Wear gloves and masks when cleaning heavily infested spaces

Protect food and water

• Cover food containers
• Keep cooking areas hygienic

Avoid direct contact with rodents

• Do not handle dead rats or mice with bare hands
• What Is The Situation In Nigeria?

As of now, Nigeria has not recorded major widespread outbreaks of hantavirus, according to available public health information.

However, health experts say rodent-borne diseases remain a concern in the country because of:

• Poor waste disposal
• Flooding in some regions
• Overcrowded living conditions
• High rodent populations in urban and rural areas

Nigeria’s better-known rodent-related disease is Lassa fever, which is caused by a different virus but also spreads through rodent contamination.

Public health officials continue to encourage improved hygiene, environmental sanitation, and early medical attention for unexplained fever or breathing difficulties.

Is There A Cure?

There is currently no specific cure for hantavirus infection, but early hospital treatment can improve survival chances.

Doctors usually provide:

• Oxygen support
• Fluids
• Intensive medical care for severe cases

Health experts advise anyone experiencing serious symptoms after rodent exposure to seek medical attention immediately.

Public Health Advice

Medical professionals stress that awareness and prevention remain the best protection against hantavirus.

Maintaining clean environments, controlling rodent populations, and practicing safe cleaning habits can significantly reduce the risk of infection.