Hantavirus Detected in Kulon Progo? Here Are the Facts

The Health Department (Dinkes) of Kulon Progo Regency in the Special Region of Yogyakarta has stated that a suspected hantavirus case involving a local resident has been declared negative based on laboratory results from the Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Health (Kemenkes). “In 2026, there was indeed a suspected hantavirus case, but the results came out two days ago and they were negative,” said the Head of Dinkes Kulon Progo, Susilaningsih, when contacted on Sunday (10/5/2026). According to her, one resident of Kulon Progo, who was previously suspected of contracting hantavirus, underwent laboratory examination by Kemenkes and was clarified by the Kulon Progo Regency Health Department and the DIY Provincial Health Department. “Yes, (the result is) negative. This information is from Kemenkes; the DIY Health Department has already clarified it with the centre. So, there are no positive hantavirus cases in humans in Kulon Progo,” said Susilaningsih. Although the result is negative, the public in Kulon Progo Regency is still advised to increase vigilance against the potential risk of transmission of the zoonotic disease, particularly regarding rats, which serve as vectors for hantavirus transmission. “Yes, because the virus is indeed carried by rodents, such as rats. Therefore, the public is urged to adopt clean and healthy living behaviours,” she explained.