Netherlands flight attendant hospitalized after hantavirus exposure linked to Johannesburg case

A flight attendant has been hospitalized in the Netherlands with mild symptoms after coming into contact with a woman who later died of hantavirus in Johannesburg, according to health authorities.

Officials said the crew member is under medical observation as a precaution while contact tracing efforts continue. Authorities stressed that the symptoms remain mild and there is currently no evidence of broader transmission.

The deceased passenger had reportedly travelled through Johannesburg before being diagnosed with hantavirus, a rare infection usually spread through exposure to infected rodents or their droppings. Human-to-human transmission is considered extremely rare, depending on the virus strain.

Health agencies in South Africa and the Netherlands are closely monitoring the case and have advised the public that the overall health risk remains low.

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