Malaysia remains free of hantarivus as MOH tightens port inspections, put health facilities on alert

Picture is for illustration purposes only. Photo: Pixabay

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 9: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed that Malaysia remains free of hantavirus infections to date, while inspections and sanitation checks on vessels at international ports have been strengthened.

Healthcare facilities nationwide are also on alert to ensure early detection and prompt management of any suspected cases.

MOH said the current risk to the public remains low, but monitoring and preparedness efforts are being intensified following reports of a suspected outbreak linked to an international cruise ship. Global health authorities are currently tracking developments involving the MV Hondius cruise ship, where eight suspected cases and three deaths have been reported.

In a statement yesterday (May 8), the ministry explained that hantavirus is a zoonotic disease transmitted mainly through exposure to urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents. Infection typically occurs through inhalation of airborne particles contaminated with rodent excreta, with most cases arising sporadically in environments with rodent infestations.

It added that human-to-human transmission is extremely rare and has only been documented in specific strains such as the Andes virus in South America.

MOH said continuous surveillance is being conducted through the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), World Health Organisation (WHO) alert systems, and other international monitoring networks.

The ministry also noted that the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) is equipped to carry out hantavirus confirmation testing, including for Andes virus (ANDV). To date, no positive cases have been detected despite receiving around 20 to 30 samples annually.

From Jan 1 to May 2 this year, MOH inspected 22,367 ships and boats at international entry points nationwide. During the same period, 2,421 pratique certificates and 1,146 Ship Sanitation Certificates (SSC) were issued to ensure compliance with public health, sanitation, and pest control requirements.

MOH reminded the public to avoid direct contact with rodents, including their urine and droppings, and to use protective gear such as gloves and face masks when cleaning potentially contaminated areas.

Individuals who develop symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, cough, or breathing difficulties after exposure to high-risk environments are advised to seek immediate medical attention.

The ministry said it will continue to closely monitor the global situation and provide updates when necessary. — DayakDaily