How prepared is the UAE to tackle hantavirus and emerging health threats?
Officials review national monitoring and emergency response mechanisms
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reaffirmed the readiness of its national health surveillance and response system to address any emerging public health developments, including those related to hantavirus.
Authorities said the country continues to maintain a proactive and integrated approach to monitoring communicable diseases, while ensuring healthcare facilities and medical teams remain fully prepared to respond when required.
The announcement came during a meeting of the National Team for the Management of Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Related to Human Epidemics, chaired by Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh under the supervision of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and attended by representatives from relevant entities and strategic partners.
System review
During the meeting, officials reviewed the latest developments surrounding hantavirus alongside the UAE’s approved national health surveillance and response systems. Discussions also focused on existing precautionary measures and coordination mechanisms with local, national and international entities.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention and NCEMA confirmed that preparedness measures and health monitoring systems are regularly evaluated and updated in line with international best practices and approved standards.
Authorities said preventive monitoring measures will continue as part of the UAE’s strategy to strengthen public health preparedness and improve response capabilities against communicable diseases.
Preventive measures
Officials also stressed the readiness of healthcare facilities and medical personnel across the country to respond efficiently to different health situations whenever necessary. The meeting highlighted the importance of coordination between government entities to ensure swift and effective action in the event of any health-related emergency.
The team urged the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid circulating misleading or inaccurate reports, reiterating the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding public health and strengthening community awareness.
WHO assessment
According to the World Health Organization, hantavirus is currently considered a low-risk pathogen in terms of global epidemic spread.
Update on #hantavirus:
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 12, 2026
As of 12 May, 12h00 CEST, a total of 11 cases, including 3 deaths, have been reported. Nine of the 11 cases are confirmed, and the other 2 are probable. All are among passengers or crew on the ship.
We expect more cases given the dynamics of spread on a… pic.twitter.com/NeeLyMQFdk
The organisation noted that human-to-human transmission remains limited, with most reported infections linked to direct exposure to rodents or environments contaminated by their waste.
The WHO also stated that the current public health situation does not indicate any level of concern regarding a potential pandemic linked to the virus.