90-Second Read: Maryland monitoring 2 residents for possible Hantavirus exposure; what you need to know

The Maryland Department of Health is monitoring two people who were on a flight and were exposed to Hantavirus. FOX 5's Maureen Umeh reports that Maryland health officials say the two individuals were on a flight with a passenger who had been on the ship connected to those fatalities. Maryland has not reported a Hantavirus case since 2019, and the Andes strain has never been detected in the state. MORE RESOURCES: 2026 Multi-country Hantavirus Cluster Linked to Cruise Ship The concern centers on the Andes strain of Hantavirus, a rare version of the virus that can spread between people under certain conditions. Later this morning, infectious‑disease experts with the College of American Pathologists are holding a virtual briefing to discuss how Hantavirus is diagnosed, why early detection is difficult and.

One Virginia traveler left the cruise ship before the outbreak was identified and is now back home under public‑health monitoring. Exposure Occurred During Air Travel The residents were not cruise passengers, and no additional details will be released to protect privacy. No Maryland Cases Since 2019 Andes Virus infections have never been reported in the state. It comes after a cruise ship outbreak linked to three deaths. Officials say there are no confirmed cases in Maryland and continue to emphasize that this is not a COVID‑like situation.

Health leaders say the risk of widespread transmission remains very low because the virus does not spread easily through casual contact. Experts say the incubation period can range from four to 42 days, and people without symptoms are not considered contagious. Andes Virus It is the only Hantavirus known to spread person to person, though such transmission is rare and requires close, prolonged contact. The Source: Information in this article comes from the Maryland Department of Health, the Associated Press and previous FOX 5 reporting. To protect privacy, no details about the two people are being released.

Virginia health officials say they are also monitoring the situation. Situation Remains Evolving Information may change as more details are confirmed. Incubation Period Ranges 4, 42 Days Asymptomatic individuals are not considered infectious. MDH Coordinating With Experts Officials are working with federal, local and international partners, including Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers.