A possible cluster of hantavirus on a passenger vessel has sparked worry concerning the uncommon ailment transmitted by rodents.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently reporting eight instances, which include five verified by laboratory testing and three that are suspected. Three individuals have died from these eight cases.
There seem to be a minimum of two confirmed instances and three suspected cases that might not be included in the official WHO figures.
Here's what you should understand about hantavirus, including its nature, mode of transmission, treatment, and any available preventative measures:
Stock photo of a colorized electron micrograph of the Hantavirus.Alfred Pasieka/Science Photo Lib/STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
What defines hantavirus?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hantaviruses constitute a group of viruses capable of inducing critical diseases, potentially leading to fatalities.
The viruses trigger two syndromes: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). HPS is mainly observed in the Western Hemisphere, notably within the U.S., whereas HFRS predominantly occurs in Europe and Asia.
The CDC stated that monitoring for hantavirus commenced in the U.S. during an epidemic in the Four Corners area in 1993, where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah converge. From 1993 until the conclusion of 2023, 890 instances of hantavirus disease have been documented in the U.S., as per the CDC.
Hantavirus garnered greater recognition when it was determined to be the cause of death for the spouse of actor Gene Hackman subsequent to the pair being discovered deceased at their residence in New Mexico in February 2025.
How does hantavirus propagate?
Typically, hantaviruses are transmitted via rodents, such as rats and mice, primarily through contact with their urine, excrement, or saliva. The CDC notes that, despite the possibility of the viruses spreading through rodent bites or scratches, such infections are infrequent.
The WHO indicates that while human-to-human transmission of hantaviruses is possible, it is also uncommon and only suspected in relation to a specific subtype originating from South America.
It has been established that the Andes virus is the particular hantavirus strain in the suspected cluster, which has historically demonstrated the capacity for transmission among individuals.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, CEO of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, conveyed her belief that the transmission within the suspected cluster occurs via "respiratory matter."
“Regarding human-to-human transfer, in theory, both methods are possible. Individuals might have tainted material on their hands, potentially enabling transmission that way," she stated. "However, based on the outbreak in Argentina, which was detailed in the New England Journal several years prior to the pandemic, we infer that it is probably transmitted via respiratory substances, whether airborne or through droplets, remains uncertain."
What symptoms are associated with hantavirus?
According to the CDC, symptoms of HPS generally manifest between one and eight weeks following exposure to the virus, with initial indicators encompassing fever, exhaustion, and muscle discomfort. Half of the individuals affected by HPS will encounter headaches, shivering, lightheadedness, queasiness, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort in the abdomen.
The CDC indicates that advanced symptoms, such as coughing, breathlessness, and chest constriction, will emerge between four and ten days after the onset of the early stage of the illness, as the lungs become filled with fluid.
The cruise ship MV Hondius, carrying passengers suspected of having cases of hantavirus on board, leaves Praia, Cape Verde, May 6, 2026.Reuters
The CDC estimates that approximately 38% of individuals who develop respiratory symptoms linked to HPS may succumb to the illness.
The CDC reports that the emergence of HFRS symptoms typically occurs within one to two weeks after contact and commonly includes severe headaches, fever, chills, backaches, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
The CDC notes that subsequent symptoms might feature decreased blood pressure, deficient blood circulation, internal bleeding, and severe kidney failure. The rate of mortality among infected individuals can vary from less than 1% to as much as 15%, contingent on the specific virus responsible for the infection.
What treatments are accessible for hantavirus?
The CDC states that there is no targeted remedy for hantavirus infection, recommending that patients obtain supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and the management of symptoms.
The CDC advises that because HPS can lead to breathing issues, patients may require respiratory support, like intubation.
The CDC indicates that HFRS has the potential to impair kidney function, and affected individuals may necessitate dialysis to eliminate contaminants from their bloodstream.
Is there a preventative vaccine?
There is currently no available vaccine to guard against hantavirus.
The CDC suggests that individuals prevent coming into contact with rodent urine, excrement, saliva, and materials used for nesting. The CDC emphasizes the importance of cleaning up after rodents in a safe manner if mice or rats are discovered in or around the home.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com