A probable hantavirus outbreak on a passenger vessel has sparked worry concerning the uncommon, rodent-borne illness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently reporting eight instances, which includes five laboratory-verified cases in conjunction with three probable cases. These eight instances have resulted in three fatalities.
There seem to be a minimum of two confirmed instances in addition to three suspected cases that might not be a component of the official WHO tally.
Here's what you have to comprehend about hantavirus inclusive of its nature, mode of transmission, treatment strategies, and available prevention measures:
Stock photo of a colorized electron micrograph of the Hantavirus.Alfred Pasieka/Science Photo Lib/STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
What is hantavirus?
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hantaviruses encompass a viral family capable of inducing critical diseases and mortality.
These viruses lead to two syndromes: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). HPS is predominantly diagnosed in the Western Hemisphere, which includes the U.S., whilst HFRS is especially located in Europe and Asia.
The CDC mentioned that hantavirus surveillance in the U.S. commenced in 1993 amid an outbreak in the Four Corners vicinity, the junction of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. The CDC reports that between 1993 and the close of 2023, there were 890 documented cases of hantavirus disease in the U.S.
Hantavirus gained greater importance when it was recognized as the reason for the demise of actor Gene Hackman’s wife, after the couple was discovered deceased at their residence in New Mexico in February 2025.
How does hantavirus spread?
Typically, hantaviruses are transmitted by rodents, such as rats and mice, predominantly through exposure to their urine, feces, or saliva. The CDC notes that whilst the viruses can be transmitted via a rodent bite or scratch, such infections are uncommon.
According to the WHO, human-to-human transmission of hantaviruses is feasible, although uncommon, and only suspected for one South American subtype.
The strain of hantavirus detected in the suspected cluster is identified as the Andes virus, historically known to have the potential for human-to-human transmission.
Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, the Infectious Diseases Society of America’s CEO, stated during a press conference on Thursday that she suspects the spread in the potential cluster is through “respiratory material.”
“Regarding human-to-human transition, again, theoretically, both potential ways. People could have contaminated material on their hands, and they could possibly transmit it that way,” she mentioned. “However, based on the outbreak in Argentina that occurred and was detailed in the New England Journal several years ago, pre-pandemic, we think that it is most likely transmitted through respiratory material, be it airborne or droplet; we don’t really know.”
What are the hantavirus symptoms?
HPS symptoms typically arise between one and eight weeks following virus exposure, with initial symptoms encompassing fever, exhaustion, and muscular discomfort, as per the CDC. Half of HPS patients will suffer headaches, chills, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort.
The CDC indicates that, four to ten days post the beginning of the illness, later symptoms will emerge, which includes coughing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
The cruise ship MV Hondius, carrying passengers suspected of having cases of hantavirus on board, leaves Praia, Cape Verde, May 6, 2026.Reuters
Approximately 38% of individuals who develop HPS respiratory symptoms are at risk of dying from the disease, as stated by the CDC.
Symptoms of HFRS typically manifest one to two weeks post-exposure, commonly presenting as extreme headaches, fever, chills, back pain, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, according to the CDC.
Later symptoms may include low blood pressure, reduced blood flow, internal hemorrhage, and acute renal failure. Depending upon the infecting virus, the CDC reports that the death rate among infected individuals ranges from below 1% to as high as 15%.
What hantavirus treatments are available?
There aren’t any particular remedies for hantavirus infection; the CDC advises patients to receive supportive care inclusive of rest, hydration, and symptom management.
The CDC states that patients may additionally require respiratory support, such as intubation, because HPS can cause breathing problems.
The CDC states that HFRS can impair kidney function, and those infected may additionally require dialysis to remove blood toxins.
Is there a vaccine?
There is no vaccine that protects against hantavirus.
The CDC recommends people stay away from contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. The CDC advises it’s important to clean up after mice or rats safely if they’re located in or around the home.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com