Albania’s Institute of Public Health (ISHP) has raised concerns over a growing rodent infestation in Tirana, warning that deteriorating urban sanitation and the lack of regular disinfection measures could increase the risk of dangerous infectious diseases.

The warning comes amid heightened public attention surrounding hantavirus — sometimes referred to as the “Andes virus” — a rodent-borne disease that has triggered global concern in recent years.

Although the Institute issued a public statement days ago aimed at calming fears, health experts say internal reports have for some time highlighted the widespread presence of rats across key public spaces in the Albanian capital, particularly around food markets, service areas and sewage infrastructure.

According to experts, several affected zones have reportedly gone nearly two years without the mandatory monthly disinfection procedures required under public health protocols.

The reports further describe a worsening situation in urban areas, where rodents have become increasingly visible not only near garbage disposal sites, but also in some of the busiest parts of the city. Videos and images shared online by tourists and social media users have also drawn attention to the issue.

Health specialists warn that the combination of poor sanitation, aging infrastructure and insufficient pest-control campaigns could create favorable conditions for the spread of infectious diseases carried by rodents.

The Institute of Public Health (ISHP) is said to possess several internal reports describing the situation as alarming, though critics argue that neither the Municipality of Tirana nor the Ministry of Health and Social Protection have taken sufficient action to address the problem.

Concerns have also reportedly been raised about rodent activity near the Mother Teresa University Hospital Center, Albania’s largest medical complex.

Public health experts continue to call for immediate and regular disinfection campaigns, warning that vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, remain most at risk.