Egypt says there are no confirmed hantavirus cases in the country. The Ministry of Health said the national health situation is stable and safe. It stressed that its hantavirus Egypt surveillance system is active all day and night. Officials said the system tracks any possible disease threat early.
The statement came after the World Health Organization reported hantavirus cases on a cruise ship. The report said two cases were confirmed in lab tests. It also noted five suspected cases. Three deaths and one critical patient were also reported during the incident.
The cruise ship is known as MV Hondiu. It is a Dutch flagged vessel. It was sailing from Argentina and Cape Verde during April. Around 147 people were on board, including passengers and crew. Health checks started after some travelers showed flu like signs. Later tests confirmed two cases of hantavirus infection.
Health experts say hantavirus is rare but serious. It spreads mainly through contact with infected rodents. People can get infected through urine, feces, or saliva of rats and mice. Human to human spread is rare, but it has been seen in limited outbreaks in the past.
Doctors explain that symptoms can look like a normal flu at first. People may feel fever, muscle pain, and tiredness. In serious cases, breathing becomes very hard. This stage needs urgent hospital care and oxygen support. Fast treatment is important to prevent severe problems.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says hantavirus pulmonary syndrome can be very dangerous. It may have a death rate of up to 38 percent in severe cases. This makes early detection and medical care very important for patient survival.
Egypt said its health system is strong and ready at all times. It said its hantavirus Egypt surveillance works across airports, ports, and land borders. Health teams check travelers and monitor health signs. The system runs day and night without stopping.
Officials said the country also follows global health updates closely. They track reports from international agencies, hospitals, and media sources. This helps them stay alert to any new disease risks that may appear worldwide.
Health authorities said there is no need for public fear. They said the situation inside Egypt remains stable. Officials added that quick action will be taken if any case appears. They advised citizens to stay informed only through official health updates.
Egypt also said coordination with global health bodies is ongoing. Data is shared in real time with international partners. This helps track possible disease spread quickly and improves global response systems. Laboratories and border teams review reports daily.
Experts said strong surveillance systems help stop outbreaks early. They reduce the chance of silent spread in crowded areas. Egypt said its system is built to respond fast to new health threats. It connects hospitals, labs, and border control teams.
Health officials also said there is no evidence of local transmission inside the country. All current monitoring results show zero confirmed cases. Authorities said people should avoid panic and follow hygiene rules. Simple steps like handwashing reduce infection risks.
Officials said they will continue to monitor the global situation closely. They promised updates if new information appears. The focus remains on safety, early detection, and fast response. The national system will stay active across all entry points at all times.
