RIYADH — Public Health Authority (Weqaya) said it is closely monitoring reports of Hantavirus infections linked to a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, stressing that the risk of the virus reaching Saudi Arabia remains “very low.”The authority said it is coordinating with international health organizations and noted that the current assessment indicates a low overall threat level due to the Kingdom’s early warning systems, epidemiological surveillance tools, border monitoring measures, and food and environmental health controls.Weqaya described Hantavirus as a rare viral disease that can become serious in some cases.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 is uncommon and has only been documented in limited cases involving specific strains and prolonged close contact.The authority said the advisory forms part of its broader efforts to raise public health awareness among travelers during the busy summer travel season.Weqaya urged travelers to follow official health guidance, review preventive requirements before travel, maintain food and water safety, practice personal hygiene, avoid contact with rodents and contaminated areas, and ensure appropriate health coverage while traveling.The authority also called on the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumors or unverified reports, adding that it will announce any public health updates if needed.
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