MULTIPLE posts circulating on social media claim that Nigeria has confirmed cases of hantavirus infection.
Hantaviruses are a group of zoonotic viruses primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents such as rats and mice.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hantavirus infections are relatively uncommon globally but can cause severe illness, including Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS) in the Americas and Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) in parts of Europe and Asia. WHO also notes that outbreaks are usually localised and linked to rodent exposure, not widespread human transmission.
One of the posts circulating online also suggests that Nigeria has confirmed a second case of the infection, implying that a first case had already been recorded.
A verified X user, @DrDanny, identified as a medical laboratory scientist, made the claim on May 8, 2026, with the caption:
“JUST IN: Nigeria has confìrmed 2nd case of Hanatavirus 🇳🇬.”
As of May 8, the post had generated over 110,000 views, 1,500 likes, and more than 300 comments, with several users expressing concern and fear over the alleged outbreak.
Similar posts have also circulated across social media platforms, suggesting that hantavirus infections have been confirmed in Nigeria.
READ: Hantavirus: No need to panic, expert reassures Nigerians
CLAIM
Nigeria has recorded confirmed cases of hantavirus infection.
FINDINGS
Findings by The FactCheckHub show that there are no confirmed cases of hantavirus infection in Nigeria as of the time of this report.
The FactCheckHub had earlier reported on what hantavirus is and the preventive measures Nigerians can take against infection.
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First, The FactCheckHub reviewed reports from credible media outlets, as well as the official websites and social media handles of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Federal Ministry of Health. Checks show there have been no confirmed cases of hantavirus in Nigeria. An outbreak of such a public health concern would likely trigger official alerts and widespread media coverage.
In addition, a Public Health Advisory signed by the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Jide Idris, on May 8, 2026, confirmed that there are no recorded cases of hantavirus in Nigeria.
“The current cluster has been linked to the Andes virus strain, for which limited human-to-human transmission has previously been documented, particularly through close contact. However, current reports indicate that the overall risk to the general public remains low,” part of the statement reads.
It added:
“At this time, there is no evidence of hantavirus cases in Nigeria.”
The agency reassured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining surveillance for emerging infectious diseases, while advising citizens to remain vigilant and continue observing preventive measures.
VERDICT
The claim that Nigeria has confirmed cases of hantavirus infection is FALSE. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed that no cases of hantavirus had been recorded in Nigeria as of May 9, 2026.
Seasoned writer and literary curator, Zainab Abdulrasaq is a factchecker for The FactCheckHub in an effort to combat information disorder. She can be reached on IG @blackbookishgirl or zabdulrasaq@icirnigeria.org
