Recently, hantavirus has again come into the public spotlight as cases have begun to be widely discussed in various countries, including Indonesia. According to data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, there were 23 cases of hantavirus in Indonesia between 2024 and 2026. These cases were spread across various regions, including Jakarta, Banten, West Java, Yogyakarta, West Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, East Java, West Sumatra, and North Sulawesi.
The virus strain found in Indonesia is Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), a strain of the Seoul virus that attacks the kidneys. Meanwhile, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which attacks the lungs and can be fatal, has never been reported in Indonesia. This infection has initial flu-like symptoms, including body aches, weakness, headache, and fever. Severe cases are found in 5-15% of HFRS cases and 60% of HPS cases.
Regarding the latest cases, local authorities continue to monitor developments in Jakarta. As of May 18, 2026, there were three confirmed cases and six suspected cases under intensive monitoring, including those being treated at healthcare facilities such as the Sulianti Saroso Infectious Diseases Hospital (RSPI Sulianti Saroso).
So what is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus has 50 strains, 24 of which can infect humans. Hantavirus is transmitted by infected rodents, particularly rats and mice. These animals can carry the virus without showing any symptoms, but the virus lives and multiplies within their bodies.
Mode of Transmission
Humans can be infected if exposed to viruses originating from urine, feces, or saliva of animals carrying the virus and the most common ways of transmission are inhaling air contaminated with rat feces, Direct contact with open wounds or mucous membranes (eyes/nose/mouth), Bites from infected animals, Consuming contaminated food or water.
The virus circulating in Indonesia is NOT HUMAN-TO-HUMAN TRANSMISSION , so no one will be infected simply by being in close contact with an infected person. Human-to-human transmission has only been reported for the HPS strain (not found in Indonesia) in South America.
Type of disease caused
- HRFS ( Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome ) attacks the kidneys and symptoms begin with high fever, headache, muscle aches, and acute kidney failure. In severe cases, yellowing of the body and eyes (jaundice) can occur. This type of HFRS is found in Indonesia.
- HPS ( Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome ) attacks the lungs and causes fluid to build up, making it difficult to breathe. This type has a high mortality rate, but no cases have been found in Indonesia (it is commonly found in the Americas, such as the United States and Canada, with the highest prevalence in Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay).
How to prevent
Since the main source is rodents, the key to prevention is to:
- Close gaps and holes in the walls, floors, or roof of the house so that mice cannot enter.
- Store food and drinks in tightly closed containers, and use a serving lid to prevent contamination.
- Clean rarely used areas like sheds, attics, or basements regularly using a protective mask and rubber gloves. Open windows to allow for good air circulation.
- Destroy rat nests and droppings by spraying a cleaning solution (such as a mixture of water and bleach) first before cleaning. Do not sweep or vacuum directly to prevent dust from flying.
- Use mouse traps in high-traffic areas, and dispose of carcasses safely.
- Avoid activities or sleeping in places where there are lots of rats or their droppings, especially abandoned areas or old warehouses.
If a family member experiences these symptoms after cleaning an area of the house suspected of being a rat nest, consult a doctor immediately. Diagnosis is made by testing for the virus using RT-PCR on a blood sample. Currently, there is no specific treatment and no vaccine to prevent Hantavirus transmission.
This article was written by Dr. Sari Purnama Hidayat, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Pulomas Hospital).