WHO: Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Poses Minimal Public Risk

The World Health Organization says the risk to the general public from the hantavirus cases linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius remains extremely low despite multiple infections and deaths. The outbreak involves the Andes strain, which can incubate for up to six weeks and spread through very close contact. WHO reports five confirmed cases and three suspected infections so far, including three fatalities, and warns that more may emerge. Health officials emphasize that human-to-human transmission is limited. Even those who shared cabins with infected passengers did not necessarily fall ill. Authorities are tracing contacts on flights and in ports across several countries. Hantavirus is a rare rodent-borne disease that can lead to severe respiratory and hemorrhagic symptoms. There is no known cure or vaccine. The ship’s operator confirms no one aboard is currently showing symptoms as it sails toward Tenerife.

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