The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), together with regional and national partners, has concluded a technical workshop in Panama aimed at strengthening surveillance, diagnosis, and response capacities for hantavirus and other viral hemorrhagic fevers across the Americas.
The initiative brought together 55 specialists from 12 countries to enhance preparedness for zoonotic diseases that continue to pose public health risks in several parts of the region, particularly in the Southern Cone. The training focused on improving countries’ ability to detect, investigate, and respond quickly to outbreaks through more coordinated and integrated surveillance systems.
Hantavirus, a rodent-borne zoonotic disease that can cause severe hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, has circulated in the Americas for more than three decades. Transmission typically occurs through inhalation of airborne particles contaminated with infected rodent excreta, making environmental monitoring and prevention critical components of public health strategies.
During the workshop, experts reviewed recent epidemiological trends, including increased cases reported in endemic countries and a prior PAHO alert issued in late 2025. Participants also shared experiences and assessed gaps in current surveillance and laboratory systems across the region.
A key component of the training focused on strengthening laboratory capacity, including updates on molecular diagnostics, serological testing, and genomic sequencing techniques used to improve outbreak detection and analysis. Hands-on exercises and simulated outbreak investigations allowed participants to practice integrated responses combining epidemiological, laboratory, and ecological data.
The program emphasized an intersectoral “One Health” approach, bringing together specialists in human health, animal health, and environmental monitoring. This included experts in rodent control and habitat assessment, reinforcing the importance of coordinated action across sectors to prevent and contain outbreaks.
PAHO highlighted recent increases in hantavirus cases in 2025 and early 2026, including travel-related transmission events, as evidence of the need for stronger preparedness systems. The organization noted that in 2025, eight countries reported 229 confirmed cases and 59 deaths, while early 2026 figures already indicate continued transmission in multiple countries.
Officials stressed that there is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for hantavirus, making prevention through rodent control, sanitation, and reduced exposure the most effective public health strategy.
PAHO reiterated its commitment to supporting countries in strengthening surveillance systems, improving diagnostic capacity, and enhancing regional coordination to respond more effectively to emerging infectious disease threats.
