The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that individuals on a cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak should be regarded as “high-risk” contacts and monitored actively for 42 days. WHO’s Maria Van Kerkhove emphasized the need for active monitoring and follow-up for all passengers and crew who disembark, despite no current symptoms on board. The risk to the public and those in the Canary Islands, where the ship is due to dock, is said to be “low.”
A WHO Disease Outbreak News update revealed that severe respiratory illness was initially reported on the cruise ship on May 2, with 147 individuals on board and 34 having already left. Eight symptomatic cases, including three fatalities, have been reported as of May 8, with six confirmed as Andes virus (ANDV) hantavirus infections. International contact tracing is being supported by WHO’s contact points in relevant countries.
The WHO urged continued public health coordination among the countries involved, emphasizing the importance of contact tracing, case management, infection prevention, and transparent communication. Early symptoms of hantavirus infection include various signs such as headache, fever, and gastrointestinal issues. WHO recommends self-monitoring, medical evaluation, and mask-wearing for low-risk contacts if symptoms develop, considering past pre-symptomatic transmission in ADNV outbreaks.
