health
No Hantavirus Pandemic: Transmission Only by 'Prolonged Contact'
The World Health Organization stated that cases of hantavirus infection on the cruise ship MC Hondus do not represent the beginning of a new pandemic and that human-to-human transmission of the virus is only possible through 'prolonged contact'.
TL;DR
- WHO states hantavirus cases on MC Hondus cruise ship are not a new pandemic.
- Human-to-human hantavirus transmission requires 'prolonged contact'.
- WHO is working with cruise operators on disembarkation and onboard health protocols.
- Passengers are confined to cabins, which are being disinfected.
- Symptomatic individuals will be isolated.
- This is the first reported hantavirus outbreak on a ship.
- The risk to the local population is considered low.