WHO Assesses Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship as Low Global Risk
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to evaluate the hantavirus outbreak linked to the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius as posing a low risk to the global population. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that out of 11 reported cases, eight were laboratory-confirmed as Andes virus infections, with no new deaths reported since May 2. The incident gained international attention after three passengers died and several others tested positive following the ship's departure from Argentina. The vessel was eventually diverted to Tenerife, Spain, for passenger disembarkation after being denied entry in Cabo Verde. The WHO maintains close coordination with relevant countries, receiving weekly updates on the health status of evacuated passengers and crew. Hantavirus, primarily transmitted through contact with rodent excreta, causes symptoms ranging from fever to severe respiratory or kidney failure. Despite the fatalities, the organization emphasizes that international coordination efforts are effectively supporting public health protection, and the broader threat remains contained.
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