Update on Hantavirus Cases in Jakarta: 3 Positive, 6 Suspected
The Jakarta Provincial Health Office (Dinkes) has recorded three positive cases of hantavirus and six suspected cases that are currently under continuous monitoring in Jakarta. The Head of the Jakarta Health Office, Ani Ruspitawati, stated that the department is monitoring the development of hantavirus cases daily to ensure rapid prevention of any spread.
“Regarding the update on hantavirus cases in Jakarta, as of today, we have found 3 positive cases, which I previously communicated to the press. However, there are 6 suspected cases that we are still monitoring as of today,” Ani said when met at the Meruya Selatan II Auxiliary Health Centre, Kembangan District, West Jakarta, on Monday (18/5/2026).
Several regional public hospitals (RSUD) have also been appointed as specialised monitoring hospitals for hantavirus cases. “Following up on the alert letter from the Ministry of Health, we have issued a circular regarding hantavirus vigilance to all facilities across Jakarta,” Ani continued.
According to Ani, these monitoring hospitals are tasked with detecting potential infections more quickly if residents are suspected of being infected with hantavirus. “We have designated several RSUDs as sentinel hospitals to provide stricter monitoring to capture any suspected hantavirus cases within the community,” she added.
Furthermore, the Health Office has deployed a rapid response team to anticipate any increase in cases. “There is also a rapid response team that continues to implement an early warning system in the event of a significant increase in cases,” she added.
Consequently, the public is advised to exercise caution when cleaning areas containing rodent droppings. Such areas should be sprayed with a cleaning solution or disinfectant first and should not be cleaned while dry. “It is necessary to be vigilant when cleaning areas with rodent droppings; ensure that ventilation is good and do not clean them while dry. The area must be sprayed with disinfectant first; at home, we can use bleach,” Ani advised.