A silent danger carried by rats and mice is once again drawing global attention. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently warned about hantavirus, a rare but serious illness that spreads mainly through contact with infected rodents and their waste. Though uncommon, the disease can turn severe very quickly, making awareness and prevention more important than ever.

People usually become infected when they breathe in tiny particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva that have mixed with dust in closed or poorly cleaned spaces. Risk can increase while sweeping storerooms, cleaning abandoned buildings, handling grain, or staying in areas with heavy rodent activity. In rare situations, some strains of the virus may also spread through very close human contact.

The illness often begins quietly, looking much like a seasonal fever. Early signs include fever, tiredness, body pain, headache, chills, and stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Some people may also complain of dizziness and weakness. However, symptoms can worsen rapidly within a few days. Breathing may become difficult, the chest may feel tight, and patients can suddenly become critically ill. Health experts warn that delayed treatment can become life-threatening.

As there is no widely available cure or vaccine, prevention remains the strongest shield. WHO advises people to keep homes, workplaces, and storage areas clean and free from rodents. Food should always be stored safely, and small openings around doors or walls should be sealed to stop rats and mice from entering. While cleaning rodent-infested places, dry sweeping should be avoided because it can spread contaminated dust into the air. Instead, affected areas should first be dampened and cleaned carefully while maintaining good hand hygiene.

Public health experts also stress the importance of early medical attention if flu-like symptoms appear after possible exposure to rodents. Quick diagnosis and supportive care can improve survival. Though the overall public risk remains low, the recent concerns surrounding hantavirus serve as a reminder that even small household pests can sometimes carry deadly consequences.

With changing weather, crowded living conditions, and poor waste management in many parts of the world, experts fear rodent-related illnesses could become harder to control. Simple habits such as disposing of garbage properly, avoiding contact with wild rodents, and using protective gloves during cleaning can greatly reduce risk. Health agencies are also encouraging stronger community awareness so that people recognise symptoms early and seek medical help before the illness turns severe.

Source: World Health Organisation