Panama: New Hantavirus cases confirmed in Los Santos /update 2

Event

Three additional cases of Hantavirus were confirmed in Los Santos province August 27-28, bringing the total number of cases reported in the province in 2017 to 14. Authorities are advising residents to keep homes and other gathering places clean to avoid attracting rats, carriers of the disease.

The first Hantavirus case in the province was confirmed on February 24. It was the first time the disease had been detected in central Panama in 16 years.

Context

Hantavirus is spread via the urine, saliva, and feces of infected rodents and is contracted via contact with contaminated surfaces or via inhalation of contaminated air. The most common symptoms of the virus are similar to those of influenza: fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other possible symptoms include headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Hantavirus is fatal in roughly one-third of cases.

Advice

Those present in Panama should avoid exposure to potentially rodent-infested areas (e.g. barns, camp sites, construction sites, garbage dumps); make sure any outdoor garbage cans are properly covered and the area kept clean; regularly air out any structures that may have rodent infestations (barns, garages, etc.); and properly store foodstuffs. Individuals exhibiting the aforementioned symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical treatment.