New Delhi: Global health authorities have confirmed that the recent hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius was caused by the rare Andes strain, the only known variant among dozens of hantavirus strains capable of spreading from person to person.
The confirmation by the World Health Organization and South African health authorities has drawn international attention because human to human transmission of hantavirus is considered extremely uncommon. Officials stressed that such spread usually requires prolonged close contact and does not occur as easily as common respiratory infections.
South African Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi stated that preliminary tests identified the Andes strain as the source of the outbreak. He noted that, although the strain can spread between humans, transmission remains very rare and typically happens only through close personal interaction.
Hantavirus belongs to a family of rodent borne viruses carried mainly by mice, rats and voles. These animals act as natural carriers and release the virus through urine, saliva and droppings. Humans are generally infected after inhaling contaminated airborne particles, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.
Scientists have identified nearly 38 hantavirus strains worldwide. Most are geographically linked to specific rodent species and are not capable of spreading between humans. The Andes strain, found mainly in South America, remains the only documented exception.
Health experts believe the cruise ship cases likely originated from exposure on land before passengers boarded the vessel. Investigators suspect the virus later spread through close contact among individuals onboard rather than through rodents on the ship itself.
Early symptoms of hantavirus often resemble flu like illness, including fever, headaches and severe muscle pain. In serious cases, patients can develop breathing difficulties as fluid builds up in the lungs. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment, making early medical care and supportive treatment critical.
Authorities have emphasised that the incident does not indicate the emergence of a new pandemic threat. Monitoring efforts are focused on contact tracing and preventing further spread of the Andes strain. Experts continue to stress that hantavirus infections remain rare and that most strains do not spread through casual human contact.
