WHO: Hantavirus outbreak is nearing its end

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that a hantavirus outbreak is nearing its conclusion, with initial cases identified in South Africa now fully accounted for. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus shared an update via social media, confirming that all contacts of the two original cases detected in South Africa have completed their observation periods without any new infections.

Similar follow-up procedures have concluded for contacts in Spain and the Netherlands, including crew members of the MV Hondius ship. As of June 25, 30 contacts are still being monitored. The total number of cases remains at 13, which includes 3 fatalities.

Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude to all participating countries for their cooperation in managing the outbreak response. The situation is described as stable, indicating that the spread of the virus has been contained.

The WHO's statement suggests a successful containment effort, bringing the outbreak to a close. The organization's proactive monitoring and the collaboration of involved nations appear to have been crucial in preventing further spread and bringing the situation under control.