A suspected outbreak of hantavirus on a passenger vessel has triggered worries concerning the uncommon disease transmitted by rodents.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is presently reporting eight occurrences, which include five instances confirmed by laboratory testing and three suspected ones. These eight cases have resulted in three fatalities.
It appears there are a minimum of two validated occurrences and three questionable cases that might not be included in the WHO’s official figures.
Here's what you should understand about hantavirus, including its nature, mode of transmission, therapeutic approaches, and available preventative measures:
Stock photo of a colorized electron micrograph of the Hantavirus.Alfred Pasieka/Science Photo Lib/STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
What exactly is hantavirus?
Hantaviruses constitute a group of viruses capable of inducing significant sickness and potential death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
These viruses give rise to two distinct syndromes: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). HPS predominantly manifests in the Western Hemisphere, notably the U.S., while HFRS is primarily observed in Europe and Asia.
Monitoring for hantavirus in the U.S. commenced in 1993 amid an epidemic in the Four Corners area, encompassing Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, as indicated by the CDC. From 1993 until the close of 2023, 890 instances of hantavirus disease have been documented across the U.S., according to the CDC.
Hantavirus gained broader recognition after being determined as the cause of demise for the spouse of actor Gene Hackman following their discovery deceased at their residence in New Mexico in February 2025.
How does hantavirus propagate?
Hantaviruses typically disseminate via rodents, including rats and mice, primarily through contact with their urine, excrement, or saliva. Although the viruses might be transmitted via a rodent bite or scratch, such occurrences are infrequent, as noted by the CDC.
Person-to-person transmission of hantaviruses is also possible, yet such instances are uncommon and only suspected for a single subtype originating from South America, according to the WHO.
The hantavirus strain implicated in the suspected cluster has been identified as the Andes virus, which, historically, has demonstrated the potential for human-to-human transmission.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, CEO of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, expressed her belief that the transmission within the suspected cluster occurs through "respiratory droplets."
“Regarding human-to-human transmission, theoretically, there are two potential pathways. Individuals may have infected material on their hands, enabling transmission. However, based on the outbreak in Argentina, documented in the New England Journal several years prior to the pandemic, we surmise that transmission likely occurs via respiratory materials, whether airborne or through droplets, though the exact mechanism remains uncertain." she stated.
What are the signs of hantavirus?
HPS symptoms generally manifest between one and eight weeks after exposure to the virus, with initial indications including fever, weariness, and muscular discomfort, according to the CDC. Approximately half of HPS sufferers will experience headaches, shivers, giddiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal distress.
The CDC indicates that following the initial phase of illness, late-stage symptoms such as coughing, breathlessness, and chest constriction due to fluid accumulation in the lungs will emerge between four and ten days later.
The cruise ship MV Hondius, carrying passengers suspected of having cases of hantavirus on board, leaves Praia, Cape Verde, May 6, 2026.Reuters
Around 38% of individuals who exhibit HPS respiratory symptoms may succumb to the ailment, as per the CDC.
Symptoms of HFRS commonly surface one to two weeks post-exposure and typically encompass intense headaches, fever, shivers, back discomfort, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, the CDC states.
Subsequent symptoms might feature diminished blood pressure, insufficient blood circulation, internal hemorrhaging, and acute kidney decompensation. Contingent on the specific virus responsible for the infection, the rate of fatality among affected individuals can fluctuate from below 1% to as high as 15%, according to the CDC.
What therapeutic options exist for hantavirus?
Currently, there is no definitive cure for hantavirus infection; instead, the CDC advises that patients receive supportive measures such as rest, hydration, and symptomatic relief.
Because HPS can precipitate breathing complications, patients may require respiratory support, possibly including intubation, as highlighted by the CDC.
HFRS can impair kidney functionality, and afflicted individuals may necessitate dialysis to purify the blood of toxins, according to the CDC.
Is there a vaccination?
There is currently no vaccine providing protection against hantavirus.
The CDC advises individuals to steer clear of any contact with rodent urine, excrement, saliva, and nesting materials. In the event of encountering mice or rats within or around the residence, the CDC underscores the importance of cleaning up after them securely.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com