Singapore responded swiftly to a hantavirus scare linked to an expedition cruise, and the system held.

But the bigger issue isn’t a single virus. It’s how travel itself is changing.

As more Singaporeans head into remote, nature-heavy environments, exposure to unfamiliar pathogens is increasing, shaped by climate shifts, ecotourism, and closer contact with wildlife.

On Viewpoint, Dr Leong Hoe Nam, an infectious disease specialist at Rophi Clinic, explains why outbreaks like this are being detected more often, where the real risks lie for travellers, and why behaviour may be the weakest link.