Malang, en.SERU.co.id – Malang’s Health Agency (Dinkes) is calling on residents to stay alert to hantavirus, an infection spread by rodents that can produce symptoms resembling COVID-19.
The appeal follows the confirmation of one hantavirus case in East Java. Dr. Husnul Muarif MM, head of Malang City Health Agency, stressed that the virus is transmitted through rat urine, saliva, and droppings that contaminate surfaces around homes.
“Hantavirus can turn up almost anywhere, so keeping your surroundings clean is crucial,” Husnul said on Friday (15/6/2026)
He noted that the risk tends to rise during the dry season, when particles from rodent waste can more easily become airborne and reach the respiratory tract. Still, he urged the public not to panic, saying the threat can be managed through basic hygiene practices.
Once inside the body, the virus can affect the kidneys and other organs. Common symptoms include cough, runny nose, headache, and body aches — much like COVID-19 — though patients typically do not lose their sense of smell. The incubation period is around two weeks.
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Husnul advised anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. For everyone else, consistent clean and healthy living habits remain the best defense.
He encouraged regular checks and cleaning of drains and sewers, ideally through community gotong royong efforts. When cleaning, residents should take precautions: wear boots, gloves, and masks, and avoid letting any contaminated material touch open wounds.
“Protect yourself properly so you don’t get direct exposure,” he added. (bas/ono)
