90-Second Read: CDC: North Carolinian was on Hantavirus-affected cruise ship

State and federal health officials have confirmed that a North Carolinian was onboard the Hantavirus-affected cruise ship. Health officials said there are no current cases of Hantavirus in North Carolina. Hantavirus cases are extremely rare in North Carolina, with one case in 1995. As of Monday afternoon, the outbreak has resulted in at least three deaths and eight cases. NCDHHS is communicating regularly with federal, state and local partners to ensure the health and safety of everyone in North Carolina.

The type of Hantavirus impacting the passengers aboard the M/V Hondius is the Andes virus, which is the only type of Hantavirus that can spread from person-to-person, generally through close, prolonged contact. Most Hantavirus cases reported in the United States are caused by a different Hantavirus and primarily occur in the western region of the country. Symptoms of Hantavirus can develop between four to 42 days after being exposed, and symptoms of infection can include fever, fatigue, deep muscle aches and in some cases severe respiratory distress. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that one person from N.C. Keep up with what's happening around our area by downloading the WYFF News 4 app on the App Store or Google Play.

The risk of infection in North Carolina remains extremely low. Hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause serious illnesses and death. People usually get Hantavirus from contact with rodents like rats and mice when exposed to their urine, droppings and saliva. Currently, there is no specific treatment for Hantavirus infection. Health officials said that no other details of the individual would be shared in an effort to protect their privacy.

Regardless of whether they remain in Nebraska or return home, all passengers will be monitored for symptoms for 42 days after their last possible exposure. The Andes virus is not known to occur naturally in the United States. Department of Health and Human Services are coordinating with state, federal and international partners. According to officials, decisions regarding when these passengers will return to their home states will be determined by federal health authorities. Patients should receive supportive care, including rest, hydration and treatment of symptoms.