Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) has assured the public that Hantavirus is not a new virus and that its transmission can be effectively prevented through Clean and Healthy Living Behaviors (PHBS). 

Experts emphasized that the virus, primarily carried by rodents, does not spread as easily as COVID-19.

"As a society and as parents, do not panic yet because it is not certain that transmission occurs like COVID-19," said Dr. Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, the Chairperson of IDAI, during an online discussion on Friday (8/5/2026), as quoted by antaranews.com. 

He noted that while no vaccine is currently available for Hantavirus, the "key lies in clean and healthy living behaviors, such as diligent handwashing, hygiene, and sanitation."

He further clarified that the Andes strain of Hantavirus, recently linked to international cruise ships, has not been reported in Indonesia. To minimize risk, the public is advised to keep food storage areas rodent-free and use disinfectants when cleaning areas prone to nesting.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)