WOAH Statement on Hantavirus

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is monitoring reports of hantavirus cases in collaboration with WHO and other partners to support a coordinated and evidence-based response, and commends WHO for its active efforts in leading the public health response to this incident. 

Hantavirus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it originates in animals — primarily rodents — before crossing into human populations. Effective rodent management grounded in integrated ecological methods remains the primary measure to reduce the risk of human infection, alongside public health awareness and risk communication.

The current situation serves as an important reminder of the value of sustained surveillance and early detection, particularly at the animal–human–environment interface. Strengthening our ability to detect and monitor diseases in animal populations is a fundamental component of prevention.

As highlighted in the 2026 State of the World’s Animal Health report to be published on 13 May 2026, around 75% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate in animals. Systems that support early detection and information sharing across sectors remain among the most effective tools to mitigate risks to human, animal, and environmental health. While speculation and fear can be driven by zoonotic risks, WOAH underlines the importance of clear science and evidence as a guiding principle when releasing and consuming information. 

While this situation requires continued vigilance and international collaboration, current assessments by WHO indicate that the risk to the general public remains low.

WOAH encourages its 183 Members to continue strengthening these efforts and to invest in integrated, One Health approach that strengthen collaboration across sectors, at the animal–human-environment interface to support early detection and enable coordinated action to address zoonotic disease risks. 

Because animal health is our health. It is everyone’s health.