Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship MV Hondius involves Andes virus: WHO

The World Health Organization confirmed on Thursday that five of the eight cases reported aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius are infections of the Andes virus. This specific strain, primarily found in South America, is rare because it is capable of limited human-to-human transmission through close contact. The outbreak has resulted in three deaths so far, with health officials noting that two of the deceased had traveled in Argentina before boarding. While patients have been evacuated to medical facilities in the Netherlands, Switzerland, and other regions, no remaining passengers or crew are currently showing symptoms.

Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that while more cases could emerge due to the virus’s long incubation period, the overall public health risk remains low. Experts highlighted the outbreak as an example of how climate change and globalization are shifting the geographical boundaries of infectious diseases. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and emphasize that prevention relies on strict hygiene and avoiding contact with rodents, which are the primary carriers of the virus.

Credit : CGTN