Denpasar – Indonesian health authorities, particularly in the tourist heartland of Bali, have intensified their vigilance against the potential spread of Hantavirus.
While no cases have been reported on the island, officials are tightening early detection systems and monitoring suspect patients, stating concerns over high traveler mobility.
The move comes as national attention focuses on the rodent-borne virus, which can cause symptoms ranging from fever and muscle aches to severe respiratory distress.
Bali’s Health Agency confirmed that its ongoing disease surveillance network is now focusing on cases showing risk factors for Hantavirus or other infectious diseases with outbreak potential.
Surveillance Strengthened Despite Zero Local Cases
I Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, Head of Disease Prevention and Control at Bali’s Health Agency, stated that monitoring is being carried out across all healthcare facilities and district-level reporting networks.
“We remain vigilant with our surveillance system, tracking suspected cases that point to Hantavirus risk factors or other diseases that could cause outbreaks,” she said on Saturday.
She noted that although screening at international and domestic entry falls under the authority of the Port Health Office, Bali’s health agency continues to work closely with these bodies.
The island’s dense tourism traffic and commercial activity are seen as potential pathways for the virus to enter.
Public Urged to Prevent Rodent Contact
Authorities stressed that Hantavirus is transmitted by rodents, primarily rats, through contact with urine, saliva, or droppings.
Infection can lead to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious respiratory illness.
“We remain vigilant with our surveillance system, tracking suspected cases that point to Hantavirus risk factors or other diseases that could cause outbreaks,” stated I Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, Bali’s Health Agency.
Officials urged residents and travellers to maintain strict environmental hygiene, avoid direct contact with wild rodents, and stay away from potentially contaminated areas. Poorly sanitized and crowded spaces are considered high-risk environments.
While no cases have been confirmed in Bali, the health agency hopes that enhanced coordination and early detection will prevent the virus from turning into a public health threat on the island.
Source: nusabali.com, wartakota.tribunnews.com
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