May 2026 Hantavirus Outbreak
The World Health Organization (WHO) was notified on May 2, 2026, of a possible hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Multiple cases, including some fatal cases, have been reported so far. It is possible that there will be more cases. That is because it can take up to six weeks for symptoms to develop after an exposure. For the latest case counts and updates, visit WHO’s Disease Outbreak News website or follow WHO on social media.
The current outbreak is caused by a type of hantavirus called Andes virus. Andes virus is unique. It is the only hantavirus that has been shown to spread from person to person. This spread between people is rare.
No outbreak-associated cases have been identified in the U.S. VDH believes the risk of this outbreak to the public is low.
- Plans are being made for passengers and crew members to safely leave the ship in the coming days.
- The federal government is coordinating the return of U.S. citizens who are on the ship.
- When they return home, public health professionals will monitor their health.
- People who have symptoms will be evaluated by healthcare providers.
VDH is closely monitoring this situation. To date, one Virginia traveler disembarked the ship before the outbreak was identified. This person has returned home and is currently under public health symptom monitoring. To protect the privacy of this person, VDH will not share more details about this individual. Information about this outbreak is changing quickly. VDH will update this website as we learn new information.
About Andes Virus Infection
Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that are found in some wild rodents around the world. Andes virus is a type of hantavirus found in South America.
Andes virus can spread to people in several ways:
- By contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva
- By touching an object or surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your nose or mouth
- Through close contact with a person who is sick with Andes virus
Andes virus can cause a severe respiratory illness in people called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS is rare but often deadly illness. If you might have had contact with someone with Andes virus and you have any of the symptoms listed below, call your healthcare provider or your local health department immediately.
- Illness often begins as a flu-like illness 4−42 days after contact with the virus.
- Early symptoms include headache, fever, muscle ache or back pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, cough, or loss of appetite.
- Symptoms can quickly worsen. Shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, and difficulty breathing might occur.
- Up to forty percent of people with HPS can die from the disease.
- There is no specific treatment for Andes virus infection or HPS. Supportive care includes treatment of symptoms, rest, and hydration. Early medical care at a facility with an intensive care unit can improve survival.
Resources for the public and healthcare providers are listed below.