The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Thursday that while more cases of hantavirus could appear, the outbreak linked to a recent cruise ship incident is expected to be "limited" if proper precautions are taken. The announcement comes after the deaths of three passengers from the MV Hondius cruise ship due to the disease.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the WHO, briefed the media on a cluster of hantavirus cases. As of May 7, 2026, eight cases have been reported, with five confirmed as hantavirus and three resulting in deaths. The specific strain identified is the Andes virus, which is known for its limited ability to transmit from person to person through close and prolonged contact.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the WHO, briefed the media on a cluster of hantavirus cases. As of May 7, 2026, eight cases have been reported, with five confirmed as hantavirus and three resulting in deaths. The specific strain identified is the Andes virus, which is known for its limited ability to transmit from person to person through close and prolonged contact.