90-Second Read: What is Hantavirus? Symptoms, spread and risk explained

The World Health Organization is monitoring a small cluster of rare Hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship, but health experts say the risk to the public remains low. Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring a cluster of cruise ship passengers aboard the MV Hondius affected by Hantavirus, specifically a rare strain known as the Andes virus. As of the end of 2023, 890 Hantavirus disease cases had been reported in the United States since national surveillance began in 1993.

As of May 7, WHO identified eight confirmed Hantavirus cases, including three deaths. The Andes virus, found primarily in South America, has been reported to spread between people who have close contact with someone who is ill. Early symptoms of Hantavirus resemble a cold or flu, and some patients may improve at first, making this virus difficult to diagnose.

Currently, there is no treatment for Hantavirus or the Andes virus-specific strain. If you think you may have been exposed to the Andes virus and are experiencing symptoms, you should contact a healthcare provider immediately. Experts from WHO, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the University of Kentucky have categorized this as a low risk to the public, but there are still ways you can stay safe.