Hantavirus Reaches Jakarta: 3 Positive, 6 Suspected Cases

The Jakarta Health Office has recorded three positive cases of hantavirus in Jakarta up to mid-May 2026. Additionally, there are six suspected cases currently under intensive monitoring. The Head of the Jakarta Health Office, Ani Ruspitawati, stated that a circular regarding vigilance has been issued to all health facilities following warnings from the Ministry of Health.

“As of now, we have still found three positive cases, which I previously communicated to journalists,” Ani said in West Jakarta on Monday (18/5).

According to her, the Health Office has also appointed several regional public hospitals (RSUD) as sentinel hospitals to tighten case monitoring. “We have designated several RSUDs as sentinel hospitals to provide stricter monitoring to detect any suspected hantavirus cases,” she said.

Furthermore, rapid response teams have been deployed to strengthen the early warning system in the event of a surge in community cases. Ani explained that hantavirus is transmitted via rats, primarily through urine, saliva, and droppings that dry and mix with airborne particles and are subsequently inhaled by humans.

“The primary mode of transmission is through the inhalation of aerosols from rat droppings, saliva, or urine that have become airborne,” she explained.

Consequently, the public is urged to improve clean living habits and exercise caution when cleaning areas where rat droppings are present. “Do not clean them while they are dry. They must first be sprayed with disinfectant. At home, bleach can be used before cleaning,” Ani concluded.