The Department of Public Health (Directie Volksgezondheid – DVG) wishes to inform the community regarding Hantavirus and the limited risk this illness currently represents for Aruba.
Hantavirus is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from infected mice or rats to humans. According to experts and scientific research, human-to-human transmission can also occur in specific variants such as the Andes virus, but generally only through very close and prolonged contact with an infected person, such as between partners, healthcare providers, or family caregivers (mantelzorg).
In Aruba, there is no indication that our local population of mice or rats is infected with Hantavirus. For this reason, the possibility of animal-to-human transmission in Aruba is considered very limited.
Currently, Aruba has no confirmed cases of Hantavirus. The only possibility for the virus to be introduced to Aruba is if a visitor or resident returns to Aruba after traveling to an area where Hantavirus is present, such as:
- Argentina
- Chile
- Bolivia
- Paraguay
- Uruguay
- Brazil
According to literature, the incubation period for Hantavirus can vary between 1 to 6 weeks before symptoms begin to appear. Initial symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Extreme fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dry cough
- Respiratory problems
In serious cases, Hantavirus can affect the lungs and create severe respiratory complications.
DVG recommends that individuals who have traveled or plan to travel to countries or natural areas within countries where Hantavirus is present avoid touching live or dead wild animals. It is important to remain alert and conscious of one’s health during and after travel, and if symptoms develop, it is important to seek medical attention and inform the doctor about travel history.
Furthermore, DVG advises the community to follow only official channels and confirmed information from competent authorities to avoid confusion, speculation, or being misinformed by incorrect information circulating on social media and other digital platforms.
The Department of Public Health continues to constantly monitor all international and regional developments to evaluate the risks and impact that Hantavirus or other illnesses could represent for public health in Aruba, and will continue to inform the community duly.
Your Health, Our Priority For more information, like our Facebook page Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba, follow us on Instagram @directie_volksgezondheid_aruba, follow us on our WhatsApp Channel, receive all information in the Aruba Health App, visit www.dvg.aw, call 5224200, or send an email to servicio@dvg.aw.