Photo Credit : WAM
The World Health Organization has confirmed that the recent Hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship does not currently indicate the start of an epidemic or global pandemic, despite the deaths of three passengers.
Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove said the incident highlights the ongoing need for investment in pathogen research, stressing that vaccines, treatments, and advanced diagnostic tools remain critical in protecting public health and saving lives.
Meanwhile, the Dutch Ministry of Health revealed that a flight attendant who came into contact with one of the infected passengers from the cruise vessel MV Hondius has been hospitalised in Amsterdam after developing mild symptoms. Authorities confirmed she is undergoing medical examinations as a precautionary measure.
The outbreak occurred aboard the small expedition cruise ship, which had departed from southern Argentina in early April. Three people reportedly died following exposure to the virus.
Health experts noted that Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through airborne particles contaminated by the urine, saliva, or droppings of infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission remains extremely rare, according to international health authorities.
