Harare, (New Ziana) – The Government has heightened disease surveillance and emergency preparedness measures for hantavirus, with health authorities confirming that three Zimbabwean health workers have been placed under precautionary quarantine after possible exposure to suspected cases outside the country.
The Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora on Monday assured the nation that Zimbabwe had not recorded any confirmed hantavirus infections, but said authorities were taking no chances in safeguarding public health.
“The three health workers were isolated purely as a precaution after they reportedly came into contact with suspected hantavirus cases while outside the country. At this stage, Zimbabwe has no confirmed case of hantavirus,” he said.
He added that the Ministry of Health and Child Care had activated monitoring and surveillance systems countrywide, including at health institutions and ports of entry, to ensure rapid detection and response should any suspected cases emerge.
“We are maintaining heightened surveillance and our healthcare teams remain on alert. The public should remain calm while the Ministry continues to implement all necessary preventive and preparedness measures,” he said.
Hantavirus is a viral disease mainly transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents, particularly through exposure to their urine, droppings or saliva. In severe cases, the virus can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a potentially fatal respiratory illness characterized by fever, fatigue and breathing difficulties.
The disease has been reported in several parts of the world, with outbreaks often linked to increased human exposure to rodents.
Mombeshora said the quarantined workers are being continuously monitored while medical assessments are underway. Authorities have not yet disclosed the duration of the isolation period.
He said Zimbabwe’s disease surveillance structures remain fully operational as the country strengthens its preparedness against emerging public health threats.
The Government has meanwhile urged citizens to maintain proper hygiene practices and avoid contact with rodents or areas that may be contaminated by rodent waste as a preventive measure.
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