Houston, TX, July 21, 2026 —

Venezuelan health officials have confirmed three fatalities attributed to hantavirus infections in the eastern state of Anzoátegui. The Ministry of Health also reported two additional suspected deaths involving health workers in the southwestern state of Barinas, though these are pending confirmation.

According to statements from the Ministry of Health, there is currently no evidence to suggest human-to-human transmission of the virus. The ministry characterized the reported cases as isolated incidents, emphasizing that they do not pose a risk to the general population.

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses spread by rodents. While they can cause serious, sometimes fatal, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in humans, transmission typically occurs through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, and saliva, often when these become aerosolized. Human-to-human transmission is rare and generally associated with specific types of hantavirus, such as Andes virus, which is not indicated in the Venezuelan reports.

The ministry stated that investigations into the Anzoátegui cases are ongoing to determine the precise source of infection. Details regarding the timeline of the reported deaths or the specific occupations of the individuals in Barinas, beyond being identified as health workers, were not provided. The ministry did not disclose the specific strain of hantavirus involved in the confirmed deaths.

Officials have assured the public that surveillance measures are in place to monitor for further cases and to manage any potential public health risks. The focus remains on confirming the nature of the suspected cases in Barinas and providing further updates as more information becomes available.



Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.click2houston.com, see more information here.

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