Hantavirus
Hantavirus Outbreak
A hantavirus outbreak associated with a cruise ship was reported on May 2, 2026. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed three outbreak-related deaths among passengers and identified the virus involved as the Andes virus, a type of hantavirus.
As of May 8, WHO reported eight cases: six confirmed cases, including three deaths, and two suspected cases*.
The ship associated with this outbreak departed from Argentina on April 1, 2026, carrying 147 passengers from 23 countries, including the United States. During the voyage, the ship stopped at several remote locations in South America. The extent of passenger contact with wildlife during this period remains unknown.
American passengers are being brought to the United States through a coordinated effort involving the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, its partner agencies, and WHO. These passengers are being evaluated at a medical facility in Nebraska with specialized capabilities. CDC is also coordinating with national and international partners to provide guidance and support to state and local health departments regarding the hantavirus response.
At this time, the risk to public health in the United States is considered extremely low. There is currently no indication of increased risk for travelers, and routine travel may continue as normal.
About Hantavirus
- Hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause severe illness and death.
- These viruses can cause diseases such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).
- Hantaviruses are typically transmitted from rodents to humans when virus particles from infected rodents’ urine, droppings, or nesting materials become airborne and are inhaled, or when contaminated materials come into contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, or broken skin.
- The Andes virus is the only hantavirus known to spread from person to person. This type of transmission is rare and generally requires close, prolonged contact with a symptomatic individual. Examples include direct physical contact, extended time spent in close or enclosed spaces, and exposure to an infected person’s saliva, respiratory secretions, or other bodily fluids (for example, through kissing, sharing utensils, or handling contaminated bedding).
Prevention
Help prevent rodent infestations by:
- Eliminating or minimizing contact with rodents
- Sealing holes and gaps in your home
- Placing traps in and around your home
- Cleaning up any easy-to-get food
Cleaning Rodent-Contaminated Areas Safely
- Do NOT dry sweep or vacuum
- Open windows and ventilate
- Spray droppings and materials with disinfectant or bleach solution first
- Wear gloves and protective gear during cleanup
- Wash hands thoroughly afterward
Resources
