Azerbaijan is not considered an endemic region for hantavirus, and the virus has not been detected among the rodent population within the country.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that this was stated in a message from the World Health Organization (WHO). It was noted that since the virus is not found among rodents living in Azerbaijan, hantavirus infection is not included in routine laboratory testing panels in the country.
"However, Azerbaijan possesses all technical capabilities for hantavirus testing in both human and animal health laboratories. The Ministry of Health follows WHO recommendations in this matter and cooperates closely with the organization. If necessary—for example, for persons arriving from epidemiologically risky countries with relevant clinical symptoms—examinations will be organized in accordance with clinical protocols," the statement added.
Hantaviruses are a family of viruses spread mainly by rodents and can cause varied disease syndromes in people worldwide, including hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. While Azerbaijan remains free of the virus, the country's healthcare system maintains high surveillance standards to prevent the cross-border spread of infectious diseases. This alignment with international health standards is part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to modernize its public health infrastructure and ensure a rapid response to potential epidemiological threats.
