Health authorities have intensified disease surveillance and emergency preparedness measures following potential exposure of three Zimbabwean health workers to suspected hantavirus cases outside the country.
Speaking on Monday, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora confirmed that Zimbabwe has not recorded any confirmed cases of Hantavirus, stressing that the precautionary steps are meant to protect public health.
The minister said the three health workers were placed under quarantine purely as a preventive measure after coming into contact with suspected cases while travelling abroad. He emphasised that their isolation does not indicate local transmission of the disease.
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Authorities have since activated nationwide monitoring systems, with surveillance heightened at health facilities and ports of entry to ensure early detection should any suspected infections arise. Health teams across the country remain on alert as part of broader preparedness efforts against emerging diseases.
Officials indicated that the quarantined workers are under continuous medical observation while assessments continue, although the duration of the isolation period has not yet been disclosed.
Hantavirus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or exposure to contaminated urine, droppings or saliva. Severe infections can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a serious respiratory condition marked by fever, fatigue and breathing difficulties.
Although outbreaks have been reported in various parts of the world, health authorities say Zimbabwe’s surveillance systems remain fully operational and capable of responding quickly to any potential threat.
Government has urged members of the public to remain calm while maintaining good hygiene practices, avoiding contact with rodents, and keeping living spaces clean to minimise possible exposure.
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