Three cruise ship passengers lost their lives following a possible outbreak of hantavirus cases, according to the WHO.
One case of the virus has already been confirmed, while five additional suspected cases are under investigation, according to the announcement.
The deaths were reported on a cruise ship traveling from Argentina to Cape Verde.
Hantavirus is a type of virus carried by rodents and is primarily transmitted to humans through the inhalation of airborne particles originating from dried rodent droppings.
There are at least 38 recognized hantavirus species worldwide, 24 of which cause disease in humans.
Infections usually occur when the virus becomes airborne from the urine, droppings, or saliva of a rodent.
Although rare, it can also be transmitted through rodent bites or scratches, which is why people living in rural areas are at higher risk.
Scientists note that it is not easily transmitted from person to person, unlike influenza or Covid-19.
Symptoms of hantavirus typically include fever, chills, muscle aches, and possibly headache.
In the early stages, it is therefore difficult to distinguish hantavirus from influenza.
Symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) usually appear one to eight weeks after contact with an infected rodent.
As the infection progresses, patients may experience chest tightness as the lungs fill with fluid.
The other syndrome caused by hantavirus—hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS)—usually develops within one to two weeks after exposure.
Mortality rates vary depending on the type of hantavirus causing the disease.
According to the CDC*, the mortality rate for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is approximately 38%, while for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome it ranges from 1% to 15% of patients.
*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USA)
There is no specific treatment for hantavirus infections.
The CDC recommends supportive care to manage symptoms, which may include oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, antiviral medications, and even dialysis.
Patients with severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized in intensive care units.
In serious cases, some patients may require intubation.
Avoiding contact with rodents at home or in the workplace is recommended to reduce exposure to the virus.
It is also advised to seal entry points in basements or attics through which rodents may enter homes.
