Recent outbreaks of hantavirus on a cruise ship and Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo have rekindled fears in the United States, largely influenced by the collective trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Americans are experiencing heightened anxiety, as evidenced by increased online discussions and humorous social media content reflecting their concerns. Experts, including Dr. Amesh Adalja from the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, highlight that while fear of exotic diseases persists, the actual risk from Ebola and hantavirus remains low compared to COVID-19. Ebola typically spreads through bodily fluids, while hantavirus is transmitted primarily through contact with rodent droppings, distinguishing their transmission from the airborne nature of COVID-19. The ongoing Ebola outbreak has been exacerbated by delays in detection and the historical context of U.S. public health funding cuts, which have affected response capabilities. Despite these challenges, experts stress the importance of relying on credible health information and maintaining preventive practices, such as hand hygiene and vaccination, to mitigate risks associated with emerging infectious diseases.