Health authorities are investigating a suspected outbreak of Hantavirus after three people died on board a cruise ship travelling between Argentina and Cape Verde.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed at least one case, while stressing that the overall risk to the public remains low.
The incident has raised concern among experts, particularly around the possibility of human-to-human transmission, which is extremely rare for hantaviruses. The virus is typically spread through contact with infected rodents, including exposure to contaminated droppings, urine or saliva.
Virologist Virginie Sauvage said identifying the specific strain involved will be key to understanding what happened on the ship.
Hantaviruses are found globally, with varying levels of severity depending on the strain. “Old World” variants, common in Europe, Asia and Africa, generally have lower fatality rates, while “New World” strains found in the Americas can be significantly more severe, sometimes affecting the lungs and heart.
There is currently no specific cure for hantavirus, with treatment focused on managing symptoms. Severe cases may require intensive care, including oxygen support.
Experts say the Andes strain, found in parts of South America, is one of the few known variants capable of limited human-to-human transmission, typically requiring close and prolonged contact.
Investigators are now working to determine whether the cases were linked through transmission on board or if infections occurred before passengers boarded the ship.
Genetic sequencing of the virus is expected to provide further clarity on the strain involved and how the outbreak developed.
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