WHO Declares End of Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

WHO Declares End of Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

The World Health Organization officially announced the end of the hantavirus outbreak on the Hondius cruise ship. The last passenger under observation completed quarantine, tested negative for the virus, and returned home. No new cases have been reported since May 25.

The outbreak occurred in April–May 2026 during a cruise across the Atlantic Ocean. The disease was caused by one of the most dangerous hantaviruses — the Andes virus. A total of 13 people were infected, and 3 died.

Hantavirus is usually transmitted from rodents. The Andes virus, though rare, can also spread from person to person through close and prolonged contact. The illness begins with fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. Severe forms can damage the lungs and kidneys.