TIRANA, May 11/ATA/ Epidemiologist at the Institute of Public Health Artan Simaku said today that the risk of hantavirus in Albania is low.
In a press conference, Simaku emphasized that, “This ensures unrestricted travel and trade, enabling free movement for both Albanian and European citizens.”
Epidemiological evidence suggests low risk, as the rodents that carry this specific hantavirus do not exist in Albania or Europe. The expert clarified that while the virus found on the ship is dangerous, person-to-person transmission is extremely rare, occurring only among close family contacts.
Regarding the measures taken, Simaku emphasized that, “To manage potential hantavirus cases, the Institute and Ministry of Health are strengthening nationwide surveillance, enhancing screening at all borders, and distributing updated protocols to health services. Protective measures for staff are in place, and a new information portal will soon support rapid case identification, isolation, and contact monitoring”.
“While in close contact with the WHO and regional neighbors like Greece regarding outbreaks, Albania’s health services are prepared for any potential cases. The IHP has full, rapid capacity for testing and diagnosis, ensuring there is no need for panic”, Simaku emphasized. /k.s/a.f/r.e/p.s./
