BLITAR – Health officials in Blitar have urged residents to stay alert against Hantavirus, a rodent-borne disease that can cause severe respiratory illness and death. Authorities issued the warning as global concern over diseases linked to rodents continues to increase.

Blitar Health Agency head dr. Christine Indrawati said Hantavirus spreads through air contaminated by particles from infected rat urine, saliva, or droppings. People can become infected after inhaling contaminated dust in dirty environments.

“Transmission can occur when someone inhales dust particles mixed with rat droppings or urine. That is why environmental cleanliness is extremely important,” she said.

According to Christine, early Hantavirus symptoms often resemble common flu symptoms. Patients usually experience high fever, headaches, muscle pain, and extreme fatigue during the first stage of infection.

She explained that the illness can later develop into serious breathing problems. Some patients may experience coughing and severe shortness of breath after the initial symptoms worsen.

“Patients often complain of fever and muscle pain, especially in the thighs, back, and shoulders. The illness can later cause coughing and breathing difficulties,” she explained.

Health officials said infection risks increase in dirty and damp places where rats frequently appear. Warehouses, storage rooms, and houses that people rarely clean carry greater risks of contamination.

Authorities now encourage residents to maintain clean living spaces and prevent rats from entering homes or food storage areas. The Health Agency also asked residents to use masks and gloves while cleaning contaminated locations.

Officials warned people not to sweep dry rat droppings carelessly because contaminated dust can spread through the air. The particles may then enter the respiratory system and increase infection risks.

“People should not clean rat droppings recklessly, especially when the waste is dry, because dust particles can fly into the air and become inhaled,” Christine said.

The agency also emphasized the importance of clean and healthy living habits to reduce disease transmission. Residents who experience fever or breathing problems after exposure to rat-infested environments should seek medical help immediately.

Christine stressed that early detection remains important because fast medical treatment can prevent the illness from becoming more severe. Local authorities continue encouraging public awareness about sanitation and rodent control across Blitar.