Hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has raised the alarm regarding rodent-borne viruses.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has shared key information people should know to protect themselves from the virus.

The global health body shared an explanatory video on X, stating, “Hantaviruses are zoonotic viruses that naturally infect rodents and can occasionally spread to people.”

Here’s what you need to know about Hantavirus:

What is Hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that naturally infect rodents and can sometimes infect humans. The group of viruses is present in some rodent species across Europe, the Americas and Asia. The disease varies by virus type and location.

How does the Hantavirus spread?

People usually get infected through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva. Limited human-to-human transmission is also possible and has been documented in some outbreaks.

Early symptoms of Hantavirus

Early symptoms of Hantavirus feel like a common illness and can appear between one and eight weeks after infection..

• Fever
• Headache
• Stomach Pain
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting

It can also cause severe illness in some rare cases.

How to prevent Hantavirus?

Preventing hantavirus is simple and can be done by

• Keeping living and work spaces clean
• Sealing openings where rodents can enter
• Storing food securely
• Using safe cleaning methods if rodent droppings are present

There is no licensed antiviral treatment or vaccine for hantavirus; however, early intensive and supportive care can make a huge difference in saving lives. 

• Pakistanis continue to access work visas in UAE: interior ministry.
• No sect specific deportations being carried out from UAE: ministry.
• Social media reports fabricate “to serve ulterior motives”: ministry.
  

The government on Friday rejected reports of targeted deportations of Pakistani nationals from the United Arab Emirates, calling them “vicious propaganda” spread by vested interests.

The interior ministry issued the clarification after reports surfaced on social media alleging the targeted deportation of Pakistani workers from the Gulf country in recent weeks.

The speculation gained traction apparently after Pakistan repaid $3.5 billion in debt to the UAE last month, increasing pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

In a post on X, the interior ministry said that it found all reporting “mala fide” after going through the details and data.

“No country or sect specific deportations from any country including UAE are being carried out,” it added.

The ministry clarified that deportations, if any, were a routine process in line with the host country’s regulations and legal system, violations of their laws, overstays or illegal documentation.

It said that Pakistani nationals, having fulfilled the host country’s visa and work-based requirements, continue to visit or access work visas in the UAE and other friendly countries without prejudice.

The ministry maintained that the “fake news being peddled” and social media posts regarding the reported deportations were malicious and fabricated “to serve ulterior motives”.

It added that any issue concerning Pakistani nationals abroad was addressed on a case-by-case basis with the relevant country through established Foreign Office channels.

The former prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, may seek an escape route after his unexpected clash near his new home at Sandringham Estate.

King Charles’ younger brother was thretened while walking his dog on Wednesday.

The alleged attack, the second incident of threat near his house in weeks, has reportedly paved way for the former Duke of York to move to more secured and safe place.

The former Duke has been embroiled in several scandals, allegedly seeking a new sanctuary to run away from all the embarrassment that he has been facing in the UK amid ongoing police investigation.

Andrew’s return to Windsor seems to be impossible amid ongoing public presssure and probe as William is very conscious. He considers his uncle is a very troubled soul.

There were reports that Andrew will flee to the UK. he was allegdly considering a permanent move to the Middle East, modeled on the self-imposed exile of Spain’s former King Juan Carlos I.

Following his eviction from Royal Lodge and the stripping of his titles, he seeks privacy, luxury, and escape from public hostility.

Alleged attacker taken into custody

The 39-year-old accused, named Alex Jenkinson, has already been charged with two counts of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to harass someone or cause alarm or distress and failing to provide a specimen of blood in custody.

The suspect was said to be wearing a balaclava and was approximately 50 yards from Mr Mountbatten-Windsor when the alleged threat occurred.

The former prince was escorted by a member of his private security team to cope with the situation.