Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health chairperson Faith Muthambi has assured the nation that the current risk of a hantavirus outbreak in South Africa remains contained, following a high-level briefing on the country’s response to the respiratory threat.

Reporting on the progress of containment measures, Muthambi revealed that contact tracing processes had identified 62 individuals as potential contacts.

Of these, 42 had already been successfully traced and were currently under medical monitoring.

“We note the assurances that there is limited exposure within the country at this stage. However, we must remain vigilant and ensure that our systems continue to function optimally to prevent any escalation,” Muthambi stated.

Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, the Department of Health (DoH), and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) briefed the Parliamentary Committee amid fears of an outbreak after one person was admitted to a hospital in Johannesburg.

Muthambi stressed that continuous updates on tracing and monitoring efforts were vital to maintaining public confidence and preventing unnecessary panic.

Preliminary laboratory findings presented to the committee confirmed the presence of the Andes strain of hantavirus.

This zoonotic virus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents and is known for causing severe respiratory illness.

Motsoaledi informed the committee that the World Health Organisation (WHO) was first notified on May 2 regarding cases of severe respiratory illness aboard the Dutch-flagged cruise ship, the MV Hondius.

The vessel, which was travelling from South America, carried 147 passengers and crew members of various nationalities.

The virus has already claimed two lives. Currently, one United Kingdom national remains hospitalised in Johannesburg. Health officials report the patient is in a stable condition.

Muthambi commended the DoH, the NICD, and frontline healthcare workers for their "swift, coordinated, and effective response" in tracking cases linked to the international vessel.

“Committee members raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of early detection systems, questioning how the initial cases managed to bypass screening protocols on board the ship and at South Africa’s points of entry.

Muthambi explained that members cross-examined the country’s border health systems and whether they were adequately equipped to detect and respond to emerging and unusual infectious diseases.

“… in addition, the committee raised question regarding the process through which the virus was identified, given that hantavirus is not routinely tested for and often difficult to detect. The committee inquired about the clinical and laboratory steps that led to its detection,” Muthambi noted.

The committee also enquired about the country’s diagnostic capacity and scientific sovereignty, particularly in relation to reports about laboratory samples being sent outside the country.

The department explained that local laboratories confirmed the diagnosis, she said.

“Members emphasised the importance of sustained investment in domestic testing capabilities to ensure that South Africa remains self-reliant.”

Muthambi highlighted that the committee also raised concerns regarding South Africa’s readiness to respond to a potential increase in cases, including the preparedness of health facilities, the protection of healthcare workers and the adequacy of contingency planning.

“Questions were posed about the potential risk in densely populated areas where rodent infestations are prevalent. The committee urged the department to provide clear guidance to address public fears. Members further emphasised the need to strengthen communication to both healthcare workers and the public to ensure consistent accurate information,” she said.

Muthambi said this incident demonstrated the importance of strong coordination with international bodies such as the WHO, and other countries.

“…effective information sharing and global health diplomacy remain critical in managing cross-border health threats,” she explained.