Health organizations are still investigating an alleged outbreak of hantavirus on the Atlantic cruise ship MV Hondius after several passengers became infected with the virus while the ship was sailing between Argentina and Cape Verde. There are confirmed cases and some suspected cases, which are being tested by the World Health Organization.What are hantaviruses?Hantaviruses can be defined as a group of viruses that are transmitted from rodents to humans through the air containing tiny dust particles from dry waste, including the feces, urine or saliva of these animals. The disease is spread by breathing in the air in areas with rodents. Health experts say closed and poorly ventilated places pose a high risk of spreading the disease.There are two main diseases associated with hantaviruses. These are hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. In the former, symptoms such as fever and fatigue first appear, and later respiratory problems develop in severe cases. CDC data shows that if lung complications occur, the death rate is as high as 38%How many cases of hantavirus have been reported globally?According to epidemiological surveys, hantavirus infection rates are low; however, such cases are still common in some parts of the world.According to the NIH, the prevalence of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome is about 150,000 cases per year, with the highest number of infections in Europe and Asia. It is estimated that most cases originate from China.A total of 890 hantavirus cases have been recorded from 1993 to 2023 after systematic surveillance was implemented in the United States. The scientific community has discovered the Seoul strain of the virus carried by Norway rats around the world.How to treat?Since there are no specific antiviral drugs to treat this condition, supportive measures may be used to manage hantavirus infection. Healthcare providers provide oxygen to the affected person while monitoring fluid balance. If the condition worsens, the intensive care unit provides advanced care for the respiratory system. When the kidneys are affected, dialysis is required.Early diagnosis is crucial in treating hantavirus infections. Health care providers emphasize that patients who show signs of hantavirus infection should undergo medical testing immediately.Have there been any recent cases of hantavirus?In addition to ongoing maritime investigations, recent cases have heightened concerns about the virus. In February 2025, Mrs. Betsy Arakawa, the wife of actor Gene Hackman, died of respiratory disease caused by hantavirus infection. Evidence of the presence of rats around her residence complemented the medical findings of the exposure.Health experts are investigating the MV Hondius to determine the mechanism of infection. Health officials emphasize the need for prevention by controlling rodents, covering entry points to buildings and using personal protective equipment when cleaning.
