What is Hantavirus
Complete guide to hantavirus - types, transmission, and current outbreak information.
Hantavirus refers to a family of viruses spread primarily by rodents. The virus can cause serious illness in humans, with two main syndromes: Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). While rare, hantavirus infections can be life-threatening.
Hantavirus is a genus of single-stranded RNA viruses in the family Hantaviridae. Unlike influenza or measles, hantavirus does not spread through human-to-human contact in most cases. The primary transmission route is through contact with infected rodents or their urine, feces, and saliva.
Types of Hantavirus
Andes Virus
Found primarily in South America, Andes virus is the only hantavirus known to spread through human-to-human contact. It causes HPS and has been responsible for the 2026 MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak. Mortality rate is approximately 30-40%.
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)
Endemic in Europe and Asia, HFRS is caused by viruses like Hantaan, Seoul, Puumala, and Dobrava. Symptoms include fever, kidney failure, and in severe cases, hemorrhage. Mortality rates range from less than 1% (Puumala) to 15% (Hantaan).
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
Prevalent in North and South America, HPS begins with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly progress to severe lung inflammation and cardiac issues. Mortality rate is approximately 35-40%.
How Hantavirus Spreads
Hantavirus spreads through direct contact with infected rodents or by inhaling aerosolized particles from their urine, feces, or saliva. Common scenarios include cleaning rodent-infested areas, farming, or sleeping on floors in endemic regions.
Current Outbreak: MV Hondius Cruise Ship
In May 2026, an Andes virus outbreak occurred aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship near the Canary Islands. The outbreak originated from a passenger who had visited Tristan da Cunha. As of May 2026, there are 35 confirmed cases across 12 countries, with 10 deaths. The World Health Organization has assessed the global public health risk as LOW.
People at Risk
Anyone who comes into contact with rodents or their nesting materials is at potential risk. Farmers, cabin dwellers, campers, and pest control workers face higher exposure. The current cruise ship outbreak has expanded risk to travelers on affected vessels.