The Ministry of Health and Social Services has assured the public that no hantavirus-related case has been detected in Namibia. However, the ministry says it is closely monitoring a hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship travelling across the South Atlantic where eight cases have been reported so far, including three deaths.

The Ministry noted that they have a robust surveillance mechanism actively coordinating with local and international partners through a multi-sectoral approach to monitor global health threats.

The ministry says the country's public health system is equipped to detect, investigate and respond to potential public health emergencies, including outbreaks.

Therefore, the Ministry appeals to the public to remain calm and not panic.

Further urging everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause undue alarm, but to rely on official communications from the ministry, the World Health Organization, Africa CDC, and other recognised public health authorities.

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses carried by rodents that can cause severe illness and even death in humans.

It spreads through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings, or saliva.

This can happen by breathing in contaminated air when dried rodent excretions are disturbed or by direct contact with infected rodents.

Symptoms appear between one to eight weeks after exposure; early symptoms are often non-specific and can include headaches, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Prevention largely depends on reducing contact between humans and rodents.

Furthermore, maintaining cleanliness, secure food storage, and safe cleaning practices are encouraged.