Health officials in Atlanta are monitoring two people believed to have been exposed to hantavirus after they arrived Monday through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and were transported to Emory University Hospital.
According to officials, the individuals were placed in a specialized biocontainment unit at the hospital. One patient is reportedly experiencing symptoms and receiving treatment, while the second person is being monitored for possible illness.
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious disease typically linked to exposure to infected rodents or their droppings. Authorities have not released additional details about the patients or how they may have been exposed.
In other news, Atlanta has been ranked the best city in the United States to start a career in 2026, according to a new national study.
The ranking highlighted Atlanta’s strong job market, large number of entry-level opportunities and relatively affordable housing compared to many other major metropolitan areas. Orlando ranked second on the list, followed by Austin, Tampa and Miami.
City leaders and business groups have continued promoting Atlanta as a destination for young professionals and recent college graduates because of its growing industries, expanding workforce and lower living costs compared to cities such as New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Meanwhile, drivers across metro Atlanta are being advised to prepare for a major traffic disruption later this week.
The planned shutdown of Interstate 285 on Atlanta’s west side, which was postponed because of rain concerns, has been rescheduled for May 15 through May 18, weather permitting.
The closure will affect both directions of I-285 between Exits 7 and 9 beginning at 7 p.m. Friday and continuing until 5 a.m. Monday.
Transportation officials say the work is part of a $375 million pavement improvement project aimed at repairing deteriorating roadway conditions. Heavy traffic delays are expected throughout the metro area during the closure.
