The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on March 7 that there are now 10 confirmed hantavirus cases globally, a decrease from the previously reported 11 after one suspected case tested negative.
Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO Director of Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, said the earlier test results for that individual were unclear, but the United States later confirmed a negative result. According to the WHO, of the 10 cases, 8 are laboratory-confirmed, and 2 classified as probable. Three people have died since the outbreak began on the luxury cruise ship MV Hondius.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that the risk to the global population remains low. The captain and 26 crew members remain aboard the ship under observation, and none are currently symptomatic. However, given the incubation period of up to six weeks, Tedros warned that more cases may emerge in the coming days as passengers return home. Passengers will be isolated and tested at specialized facilities or at home.
Tedros stated this does not mean the outbreak is expanding but rather shows that control measures are working, testing is ongoing, and patients are receiving care with support from their respective governments. Dr. Kerkhove said the body of a deceased passenger remains aboard the ship, and the WHO is coordinating for proper disposal while working with experts in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay to investigate the outbreak.
Hantavirus is typically transmitted through rodents. However, the Andes virus strain responsible for this outbreak can spread between humans through prolonged close contact, usually in enclosed settings. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and abdominal pain one to eight weeks after exposure. In severe cases, the disease can progress rapidly to coughing, shortness of breath, and fluid accumulation in the lungs. There is currently no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment; care is primarily supportive.
