Global Race to Trace Cruise Passengers After Hantavirus Outbreak
Health authorities across the globe are racing to trace dozens of people.
A Global Health Alert
These people disembarked from a cruise ship before a hantavirus outbreak was detected. Officials are also tracing anyone who has come into close contact with them since.The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed five cases. Three of those have died. The outbreak happened on the Dutch vessel MV Hondius.
Not Another Pandemic
The WHO said this is not the start of a pandemic like Covid. This strain of hantavirus spreads through “close, intimate contact”. Therefore, the risk to the general public remains low. However, the incubation period can be up to six weeks. As a result, more cases may still be reported.
