By The World Health Organisation has assessed the recent cluster of hantavirus cases linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius as posing a low public health risk, despite confirming multiple infections and fatalities.
In a media briefing, WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, disclosed that eight cases have so far been reported, including three deaths, with five of the infections confirmed as the Andes virus.
He noted that it is a rare strain capable of limited human-to-human transmission through close and prolonged contact.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the incident, WHO noted that the overall risk remains contained. However, it warned that additional cases could still emerge due to the virus’s incubation period.
The organisation said it is working with affected countries under the International Health Regulations to coordinate response efforts. Measures already taken include deploying a health expert onboard the vessel to conduct medical assessments and facilitate risk evaluation among passengers and crew.
In addition, about 2,500 diagnostic kits have been dispatched from Argentina to laboratories across five countries to strengthen testing capacity, while guidelines are being developed to ensure the safe and orderly disembarkation of those onboard.
WHO said its priority is to ensure proper care for affected individuals, safeguard other passengers, and prevent further spread of the virus.
“Our priorities are to ensure the affected patients receive care, that the remaining passengers on the ship are kept safe and treated with dignity, and to prevent any further spread of the virus,” Tedros said
