Hantavirus Outbreak: The increasing climate change around the world is no longer limited to just the weather, but its effect is also visible on human health. Scientists say that due to changing climate and environmental imbalance the risk of many infectious diseases is increasing. One of these is Hantavirus virus, which was earlier considered to be a disease of only some limited areas, but now its cases are seen increasing in many countries.

According to experts, due to climate change, the habitat and numbers of rats and other rodents are changing. These organisms are considered the main carriers of Hantavirus. In such a situation, the risk of them coming in contact with humans has increased more than before.

What is Hantavirus virus?

Hantavirus is a virus that is mainly spread by species like rats and mice. This virus reaches the environment through their urine, feces and saliva. Infection can occur when humans inhale infected dust or particles. According to experts, there are many types of Hantavirus, but Andes virus is such a strain that can spread from human to human. This virus is mainly found in South America.

Why is the threat from climate change increasing?

According to the report, changes in weather and irregular rainfall are affecting the number of rodents that spread Hantavirus. After heavy rains, vegetation grows rapidly, as rats get more food and their population starts increasing. When floods occur, these creatures leave their natural habitats and start coming towards human settlements. On the other hand, even in drought conditions, these creatures come close to human population in search of food and water. This is the reason why the risk of infection is also increasing with the change in weather. Experts say that due to rising temperature the reproductive cycle of rats is also being affected. Earlier the cold weather helped in limiting their numbers, but now due to increasing temperatures these creatures have started spreading to new areas.

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Major cases in many countries

According to the report of the Pan American Health Organization, a rise in the cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome has been seen in the South American countries Bolivia and Paraguay. Argentina is still reporting the highest number of cases. Experts say that this danger may increase further in the coming years, because the organisms spreading the virus are reaching areas which were earlier considered less dangerous. Apart from this, according to experts, deforestation and agricultural expansion are also increasing this danger. Clearing forests for farming and urbanization is reducing the distance between humans and wildlife. This increases the risk of disease spreading from animals to humans. The report also states that people working in rural areas or spending more time around forests may be at greater risk of infection.

Experts warned

Researchers say that in the coming time, such viruses may spread to new areas where their cases were not seen before. Scientists have warned that if timely monitoring and public health plans are not taken care of, then it can become a big threat.

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