90-Second Read: France confirms Hantavirus in cruise outbreak is not new or more transmissible

RELATED STORY | Researchers work to develop Hantavirus vaccine as cruise ship outbreak raises global alarm The French passenger tested positive after traveling aboard the MV Hondius and has been treated in Paris. The outbreak on the ship has reached 11 cases, nine of which have been confirmed. Three people on the cruise died, including a Dutch couple who health officials believe were the first exposed to the virus while visiting South America.

Pasteur Institute says Andes strain of virus from MV Hondius outbreak matches known South American strains, with no signs of increased danger. This sequencing work allows us to better understand the virus and to ensure close health monitoring. Pasteur said the viruses detected in patients from the ship were identical to each other and about 97% similar to some Andes viruses circulating in South America, including those identified in rodents.

Jean-Claude Manuguerra, who heads Pasteur's Environment and Infectious Risk unit, said the remaining variation appeared to reflect natural viral variation and did not seem to affect the characteristics of the virus detected among travelers. French authorities previously said she was in serious condition.