What you should know about hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship travel in several countries

What you should know about hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship travel in several countries

WHO says a hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship travel has been detected across multiple countries. As of May 4, 2026, seven cases (two confirmed) were identified, with three deaths and response measures underway.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported a hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship travel across multiple countries.
Hantaviruses are carried by rodents and can cause severe illness in humans. They mainly spread through contact with infected urine, faeces, or saliva.
The illness typically presents with symptoms such as fever and gastrointestinal issues, and can rapidly progress to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and shock.
Health authorities have already activated response measures, including investigations, case isolation and care, medical evacuation, and laboratory testing.
As of May 4, 2026, seven cases had been identified on the affected ship—two confirmed and five suspected. Three deaths have been reported, while one patient remains critically ill and three others have mild symptoms.
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Despite the outbreak, the global risk has been assessed as low.

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