WHO confirms person-to-person spread of Andes hantavirus on cruise ship
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that the Hantavirus strain behind the outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship is the Andes variant, known for its ability to spread between humans, Qazinform News Agency cites WAM.
11 cases were detected in total, including eight confirmed, two probable, and one is under monitoring in the U.S.
The ship outbreak claimed three lives, representing a 27% case fatality rate.
All infections occurred among passengers or crew on board, the WHO said in a statement released on 14 May.
Most Hantaviruses are transmitted through contact with infected rodents.
The Andes strain, native to South America, is distinct in its ability to spread via close human contact.
As written before, French authorities confirmed hospitalization of 22 in Hantavirus case.