Hantavirus latest updates: Confirmed cases rise to 5 from Dutch cruise ship, WHO says
Yahoo • • world
Key Points:
- Three U.S. states—California, Georgia, and Arizona—are monitoring travelers for potential hantavirus infections after exposure on the MV Hondius cruise ship linked to a deadly outbreak.
- The outbreak on the MV Hondius has resulted in eight suspected cases and five confirmed cases of hantavirus, including three fatalities involving European passengers.
- U.S. health officials emphasize that the risk to the American public remains extremely low, with monitored individuals showing no signs of illness so far.
- The cruise ship has resumed its journey to Spain’s Canary Islands despite local opposition, while authorities continue efforts to locate passengers who disembarked earlier.
- The hantavirus strain involved, Andes virus, is notable for its rare human-to-human transmission, raising concerns about potential spread among passengers and contacts.
