What Is Hantavirus? Know Symptoms, Causes & Prevention After Three Passengers Killed in Cruise Ship Outbreak

A rare but potentially life-threatening infection called Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome has drawn global attention after a suspected outbreak aboard the expedition cruise ship MV Hondius left multiple passengers dead and several others seriously ill. Health authorities in several countries are monitoring exposed travellers, but experts stress that hantavirus is not spread as easily as respiratory viruses such as COVID-19.

The recent cluster has raised questions about what hantavirus is, how it spreads and which symptoms should prompt urgent medical attention.

What Is Hantavirus? How Does It Affect Human Beings?

Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried mainly by rodents such as mice and rats. People can become infected when they inhale tiny virus particles released from rodent urine, droppings or saliva, especially in enclosed spaces where contaminated dust becomes airborne as per World Health Organisation (WHO).

The disease can affect the body in different ways depending on the strain and the region. In the Americas, some strains can cause a severe condition called Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS), which can rapidly damage the lungs and heart. In Europe and Asia, related strains more commonly cause kidney-related illness known as haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.

Deadly Cases on Expedition Cruise Spark Fresh Hantavirus Fears

As of the latest WHO update, several passengers became ill and three deaths were reported. WHO says the risk to the wider public is low, although passengers and crew are being monitored because the Andes strain is the only hantavirus known to have caused limited person-to-person transmission among close contacts.

Hantavirus Symptoms You Need to Know

Symptoms often begin with signs that resemble the flu or a stomach infection, which can make early diagnosis difficult.

Common early symptoms of Hantavirus include:

Fever and chills
Severe muscle aches, especially in the back, hips and legs
Headache
Fatigue and weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Dizziness

In more serious cases, symptoms can worsen quickly and may include:

Dry cough
Chest tightness
Shortness of breath
Rapid breathing
Low blood pressure

How Long Does It Take for Hantavirus Symptoms to Appear?

The incubation period is typically between two and four weeks after exposure, but symptoms may appear as early as one week or as late as eight weeks. During the current outbreak of Hantavirus, WHO has advised close contacts to monitor themselves for more than six weeks after potential exposure.

How Does Hantavirus Spread?

Most infections occur after contact with environments contaminated by rodents. People are at higher risk when cleaning cabins, sheds, attics, barns or other enclosed spaces where rodent droppings may be present.

Limited person-to-person spread has only been documented with the Andes virus and usually involves prolonged close contact, rather than casual exposure.

Is There a Cure for Hantavirus?

There is no specific approved antiviral treatment or vaccine for hantavirus as per WHO. Doctors focus on supportive care, including oxygen therapy, intensive monitoring and treatment for breathing or circulatory complications. Early medical attention can significantly improve survival.

How to Protect Yourself from Hantavirus? Check Steps of Prevention

The most effective prevention is reducing exposure to rodents and their waste.

• Sealing holes and cracks in homes and storage spaces
• Storing food securely
• Avoiding dry sweeping or vacuuming rodent droppings
• Spraying contaminated areas with disinfectant before cleaning
• Wearing gloves and a well-fitting mask when cleaning infested areas
• Washing hands thoroughly afterward

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