Hantavirus is found across the globe and usually spreads when a person comes in contact with faeces or urine of infected rodents such as mice and rats.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus “starts with 1–8 weeks of incubation, followed by abrupt flu-like symptoms including high fever (101-104°F), intense muscle aches (thighs, hips, back), fatigue, and headaches.”
The virus sometimes causes a fatal lung infection called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, as there is no specific treatment or cure for it; however, the chances of survival can be increased with early medication.
For those unaware, a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has claimed the lives of three people, while one is in the intensive care unit.
Laboratory testing has confirmed one case, whereas five have reportedly been infected with the virus, but it has yet to be confirmed, according to the World Health Organization.
On Sunday, April 3, the World Health Organization issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) that read, "WHO is aware of and supporting a public health event involving a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean.”
"To date, one case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, and there are five additional suspected cases. Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa.”
The Geneva-based United Nations agency has carried out an investigation to find out the root cause of the ongoing health crisis on a cruise ship.
In a talk with the Reuters news agency, a Dutch Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed the death of two Dutch passengers; however, no details were shared.
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