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Viral video on 'missing samples' in Australia revives false health alert regarding hantavirus
via Business News3 min read
A video posted on Facebook on Thursday, May 7, 2026, claims that "323 viral samples including dangerous viruses like Hendra, Hanta, and rabies have disappeared from a laboratory in Australia." The video, presented as "urgent and serious," suggests an investigation was opened after the disappearance of sensitive biological samples, implying a major incident could threaten global public health. This publication quickly caused concern among internet users, with some linking it to recent discussions about hantavirus and fearing a new health crisis. The widespread dissemination of this video occurs amid significant media attention on hantavirus, particularly after reports of several deaths on a cruise ship. This incident had caused a wave of concern on social media, with many users discussing a possible worrying spread of the virus. Following this controversy, several international media outlets and the World Health Organization reiterated that hantavirus is not a new virus and is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their excrement. Health authorities also clarified that there was no evidence to suggest a pandemic or massive human-to-human transmission in this specific context. The WHO reminded that hantaviruses have been known for several decades and human cases remain relatively rare, although some forms can cause serious diseases. In this climate of concern, the video about the disappearance of viral samples in Australia was widely interpreted as a ne
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Must ReadThe Council of the League of Arab States unanimously approved the appointment of Nabil Fahmy as the organization's Secretary-General during a meeting of Arab foreign ministers held on Monday, June 22, 2026, in Amman. This information comes from the Arab League press office. Nabil Fahmy, a former Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and seasoned diplomat, succeeds Ahmed Aboul Gheit. His five-year term will begin in July 2026. His nomination was endorsed by consensus at the ministerial meeting in Amman, confirming member states' support for his candidacy. Starting July 1, 2026, his mission will include coordinating common Arab action and monitoring key regional issues on the Arab League's agenda.
The Committee on External Relations, International Cooperation, Affairs of Tunisians Abroad, and Migration continued its review of the proposed bill to establish a National Council for Tunisians Residing Abroad on Monday, June 22, 2026. The committee heard from the president of the National Council of the Order of Physicians and the dean of Tunisian engineers. The discussions focused on strengthening ties between the state and Tunisian professionals abroad, leveraging their expertise for national development, and addressing brain drain. The committee president, Riadh Jaidane, stated the initiative aims to improve communication with the diaspora, address their concerns, and enhance their contribution to development projects. The dean of Tunisian engineers praised the initiative as a significant step to strengthen ties and increase contributions to economic, scientific, and social development. He proposed direct representation for engineers within the council through the Order of Tunisian Engineers, the creation of a permanent commission for engineering and technology skills, and a national digital platform to connect with Tunisian professionals abroad. He noted that Tunisian engineers abroad hold key positions in strategic sectors like energy, infrastructure, industry, aeronautics, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energies. He emphasized that emigration can be a strategic asset if there is a legal and institutional framework to involve these profe
Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, met with his Algerian counterpart, Ahmed Attaf, Minister of State, Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, on June 22, 2026, in Amman. The meeting, held on the sidelines of an Arab ministerial gathering, focused on Tunisian-Algerian cooperation. Discussions centered on preparing for the upcoming Tunisian-Algerian Follow-up Commission, scheduled for next month. Key areas of cooperation reviewed included trade, industry, and energy. The ministers also addressed improving consular services and facilitating the movement and residency of Tunisian and Algerian nationals across the border. Beyond bilateral issues, Nafti and Attaf exchanged views on regional and international matters, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening consultation and coordination between Tunis and Algiers to address common challenges and regional developments. This meeting highlights the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, aiming to consolidate their partnership in economic, energy, and security sectors, while also facilitating exchanges between their citizens.