#Habitat-Mediated #Spillover #Risk of #Andes #Hantavirus in Oligoryzomys longicaudatus: A Mechanistic Eco-Epidemiological Model

 

Abstract

Andes hantavirus (ANDV) is a rodent-borne orthohantavirus associated with hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome in southern South America. Its maintenance and spillover risk depend on the ecology of its principal reservoir, Oligoryzomys longicaudatus, and on environmental changes that alter habitat availability, host abundance, and human–rodent interfaces. We developed a mechanistic eco-epidemiological model that couples effective habitat cover to an SIR framework for ANDV transmission in O. longicaudatus. Habitat degradation and compensatory restoration modify rodent carrying capacity, natality, and the force of infection, which depends on infected host load relative to instantaneous ecological capacity. We derived the habitat equilibrium, the basic reproduction number ℛ0, and the time-dependent effective reproduction number ℛ𝑒(𝑡) and evaluated infection-burden and threshold indicators across degradation-restoration scenarios. The  analysis shows that ℛ0 is independent of equilibrium habitat cover because susceptible abundance scales with carrying capacity at the disease-free  equilibrium. In contrast, ℛ𝑒(𝑡), cumulative incidence, and infected load depend on transient habitat-mediated crowding. Restoration increases reservoir abundance and absolute infection burden, whereas degradation can reduce abundance while increasing crowding-driven transmission pressure and prolonging supercritical windows. These results identify ecological conditions under which habitat change may intensify reservoir infection pressure and guide One Health surveillance at human–rodent interfaces.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/9/1024

____

Characteristics and #Superspreading #Potential of #Andes Virus Person-to-Person #Transmission

 

Abstract

By using historical contact tracing data, we estimated that 23.4% of case-patients caused 80% of Andes virus (ANDV) person-to-person transmission. We demonstrated a low but nonnegligible probability of observing a large-scale ANDV infection outbreak in a rodent-free setting consisting of close contacts, despite the historically self-limited person-to-person transmission of ANDV.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3210.260908

____

Toward #medical #countermeasures against #hantaviruses

 

Abstract

Hantaviruses are zoonotic threats that can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and severe cardiopulmonary syndrome. Despite disease severity, there are no approved vaccines or therapeutics available for the prevention or management of hantavirus infections. Here, we discuss advances in the development of vaccines, neutralizing antibodies, and small-molecule antiviral therapeutics.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2026.08.002

____

#Genomic characterization of Lao #Mobatvirus strains reveals host-associated clustering in Southeast Asian #bats

 

ABSTRACT

While members of the genus Orthohantavirus are well-established human pathogens, the zoonotic potential of bat-associated hantavirids, particularly those within the genus Mobatvirus, remains largely unresolved. To investigate the genetic diversity of these lineages in Southeast Asia, we conducted an expanded surveillance programme in Lao PDR from May 2023 to October 2025 in bat populations and wild animals from local wet markets. Using molecular screening and deep sequencing to characterize hantavirids from bat populations and wild animals from local wet markets, we identified 20 positive samples across four bat species, recovering coding-complete genomes for multiple novel variants. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that these viruses clustered within Mobatvirus, resolving into two major subclades. The first subclade clustered with Quezon and Robina viruses found in fruit-eating bats. The second subclade further split into two lineages corresponding to Ðakrông and Xuân Sơn viruses, which are associated with trident and leaf-nosed bats, respectively. Despite the strong host association observed, the detection of these viruses in a wet market highlights this setting as a potential human exposure interface. These findings significantly expand the known diversity of mobatviruses in Laos and highlight the urgent need for serological surveillance in at-risk human populations to assess the potential for spillover.

Source: 

Link: https://www.microbiologyresearch.org/content/journal/jgv/10.1099/jgv.0.002333

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Increasing spatial scale of #analysis weakens and can mask the #dilution effect for #hantaviruses

 

Abstract

Despite its major implications for biodiversity conservation and public health, the generality of a protective effect of biodiversity on zoonotic pathogen transmission (i.e., the dilution effect) remains strongly debated. This controversy may partly arise from the diversity of analytical approaches used, but also from the spatial scales at which studies are conducted. Here, we explicitly test whether increasing the spatial scale of analysis affects the detection of the relationship between hantavirus infection prevalence and rodent species richness, using a global dataset spanning multiple regions. Although the association between species richness and infection prevalence remains negative across all spatial scales, we show that the magnitude of the dilution effect progressively weakens as spatial aggregation increases and can become statistically non-significant at coarse spatial resolutions. These results, which are consistent across world regions, indicate that the dilution effect is likely a general feature of hantavirus–rodent systems, but that its empirical detection is highly sensitive to the spatial scale of analysis. Our findings highlight how large-scale spatial aggregation can mask underlying ecological processes and emphasize the need to carefully match spatial scale to the biological mechanisms under investigation when testing biodiversity–disease relationships. Finally, we discuss the ecological and methodological mechanisms that may obscure dilution effects and outline why scale-explicit approaches are essential for robust inference in biodiversity-disease research.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/globalpublichealth/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgph.0007045

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Cardiopulmonary Failure in #Hantavirus Disease: Mechanisms, Recognition, and #ECMO-Based Management

 

Abstract

Background: 

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), also designated hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome, is caused by New World hantaviruses, principally Sin Nombre virus in North America and Andes virus in South America. The syndrome is characterized by rapidly progressive noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and myocardial depression, with case fatality rates of 25% to 40%. A 2026 outbreak aboard an expedition cruise ship in the South Atlantic, comprising 13 cases and three deaths, confirmed that Andes virus can be transmitted between humans in a confined setting remote from the rodent reservoir. 

Methods: 

Virological, pathophysiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of HPS were reviewed, with particular emphasis on cardiopulmonary mechanisms. Sources were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, with priority given to original research articles, clinical series, and controlled trials published through 2025. Literature published in English and Spanish was included. 

Results: 

Pathogenic hantaviruses enter endothelial cells and platelets via αvβ3 integrins, disrupting the VEGF-VEGFR2 signaling axis and rendering endothelial cells hypersensitive to physiological VEGF concentrations. Expansion of CD8+ T cells and activated macrophages releases TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, and nitric oxide, amplifying microvascular permeability and contributing to myocardial depression. Autopsy studies demonstrate direct hantaviral myocarditis with viral antigen in cardiac endothelium and interstitial macrophages. Transpulmonary thermodilution confirms simultaneous hypovolemia, reduced global ejection fraction, and elevated extravascular lung water. Because the incubation period is long and the cardiopulmonary phase is substantially immune-mediated, seroconversion precedes rather than follows clinical deterioration, which preserves the diagnostic utility of IgM serology in a disease that can kill within 48 h. VA-ECMO initiated at the first signs of cardiopulmonary decompensation has reported survival rates approaching 80% in selected experienced centers. No antiviral has demonstrated efficacy in controlled trials during the cardiopulmonary phase, and no licensed vaccine exists. 

Conclusions: 

HPS produces a mixed shock state through increased microvascular permeability, T cell-mediated immunopathology, and direct myocarditis. Management follows a stepwise algorithm: suspected HPS triggers immediate complete blood count with peripheral blood smear and concurrent hantavirus IgM serology and RT-PCR, followed by ICU admission, conservative fluid resuscitation guided by transpulmonary thermodilution, and early contact with an ECMO-capable center at the first sign of rising lactate, falling cardiac index, refractory shock, arrhythmia, or rapid oxygenation failure.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/8/915

____

Of Mice and Men: #Updates on #Hantavirus Disease and #Diagnostics

 

Abstract

Hantaviruses are a diverse and widespread group of zoonotic viruses under the Orthohantavirus genus that can cause severe acute cardiopulmonary or renal disease. Hantavirus species are grouped generally as either New World or Old World based on geographic distribution, which is influenced by their respective host reservoir including rodents. Although there is no specific treatment for hantaviruses, recognizing clinical presentation and interpreting laboratory results for case identification can improve patient management. Here we review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic testing options for hantavirus infection.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1386653226000843?dgcid=rss_sd_all

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#Andes #Hantavirus: an imported case, a French-Argentine national on #tourist trip to #France, has been detected in the territory (Min. Health, August 6 '26)

 

Health authorities have been informed of a case of hantavirus in the country. The Andes strain was confirmed by the National Reference Center (CNR) this Thursday, August 6. The patient, who is isolating with his family in Spain, is a tourist who transited through France during the second half of July. The patient, who was initially only mildly symptomatic, is no longer exhibiting any symptoms. All necessary management measures are being implemented to care for the patient and trace his travel history.

    Today at 3 p.m., a group of scientific experts, in conjunction with the Directorate General of Health and Public Health France, is meeting to determine the appropriate course of action and management measures to be implemented regarding this imported case. Coordination at the European level is also being established.

    The health authorities are fully mobilized and will communicate regularly on the evolution of the situation.

    ° What is hantavirus and Andes hantavirus?

        § Hantaviruses are viruses transmitted by infected rodents, primarily through the inhalation of dust contaminated by their urine or feces. It is a rare but serious disease that can be fatal. In humans, some hantaviruses cause two types of illness:

            * Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (especially in Europe and Asia);

            * Cardiopulmonary syndrome (especially in America, more serious).

        § There are 140 types of hantavirus, present on all continents, including the Andes virus.

    

    The Andes virus, found in South America, is distinguished by its rare ability to transmit from person to person through close and prolonged contact. 

    After an incubation period of one to six weeks, the infection typically begins with flu-like symptoms including fever, body aches, and fatigue. 

    Severe cases can progress to kidney damage or severe respiratory distress.

    At this stage, we are not dealing with a virus that is circulating widely in the population.

Source: 

Link: https://sante.gouv.fr/actualites-presse/presse/communiques-de-presse/article/hantavirus-andes-un-cas-importe-franco-argentin-en-voyage-touristique-en-france

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Transient #Andes #orthohantavirus #RNA #detection in an asymptomatic #healthcare worker following indirect exposure during hospital care of an imported case, the #Netherlands, 2026

 

Abstract

Following an outbreak of Andes hantavirus (ANDV) infections on a cruise ship in May 2026, a healthcare worker not directly involved in caring for an imported ANDV case in the Netherlands had a single low-positive ANDV PCR result. The healthcare worker remained asymptomatic, showed no seroconversion, and all subsequent samples tested negative. We describe a retrospective investigation, including detailed reconstruction of potential transmission routes. Our finding may indicate that asymptomatic ANDV infections with low-level viraemia can occur after indirect exposure.

Source: 

Link: https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2026.31.31.2600580?emailalert=true#abstract_content

____

Expedition #cruises, island hopping, and #zoonotic #risk: #governance and operational lessons from the MV #Hondius #Andes hantavirus outbreak

 

Abstract

The Andes orthohantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius expedition cruise illustrates how a probable land-based zoonotic exposure can become a multinational public health event when it intersects with enclosed shipboard environments, delayed clinical recognition, remote navigation, medical evacuation, and international passenger dispersal. Although hantavirus infection is classically associated with exposure to infected rodents or contaminated environments, Andes virus is exceptional among orthohantaviruses because limited person-to-person transmission has been documented, particularly after close and prolonged contact. This Perspective uses the MV Hondius outbreak as an analytical case study to identify governance and operational gaps in expedition-era travel medicine. Existing International Health Regulations, WHO ship-event guidance, and ECDC recommendations provide essential foundations for coordination, notification, isolation, and contact tracing; however, this outbreak exposed expedition-specific gaps in safe port access, medical evacuation, onboard recognition of nonspecific febrile illness, diagnostic escalation, passenger traceability, and post-disembarkation monitoring. We therefore propose an accountability-oriented One Health preparedness model that operationalizes existing guidance through route-level risk assessment, exposure-history assessment, onboard syndromic surveillance, isolation and telemedicine triggers, reference-laboratory pathways, port-of-call agreements, auditable passenger and excursion records, and cross-border post-travel monitoring. The central lesson is not that expedition cruises, birdwatching, or ecological tourism are inherently unsafe, but that their expanding geographic reach requires binding, auditable, and expedition-specific outbreak protocols before passengers embark.

Source: 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2026.1892006/full

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#Climatechange as an amplifier of #hantavirus #risk in South #Asia: a neglected nexus

 

Abstract

Hantavirus is seroepidemiologically established in South Asian human populations and rodent reservoirs, with anti-hantavirus antibodies confirmed in occupational risk groups in India, an independent association with chronic kidney disease demonstrated in Sri Lanka, and co-infection with leptospirosis identified in more than one-fifth of hospitalized leptospirosis patients. Despite this, the intersection of these findings with the region’s intensifying monsoon floods, rapid urbanization, and climate-driven rodent ecology remains entirely unexamined. This letter highlights the neglected climate−hantavirus nexus, identifies structural vulnerabilities that amplify transmission risk in South Asia, and calls for integrated flood-response surveillance and One Health coordination across the region.

Source: 

Link: https://academic.oup.com/trstmh/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/trstmh/trag082/8746591?redirectedFrom=fulltext

____

#Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome in #children: a systematic scoping #review of presentation, critical care management, and outcomes

 

Abstract

Background

Pediatric hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome/hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HCPS/HPS) is rare but can progress rapidly from a nonspecific febrile prodrome to respiratory failure, shock, and multiorgan dysfunction. Pediatric-specific evidence is limited, and a comprehensive map of the clinical literature is lacking.

Methods

We conducted a systematic scoping review per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidance (protocol registered at DOI:10.17605/OSF.IO/MZDN4). PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to May 2026. Eligible reports described children or adolescents (age ≤18 years) with HCPS/HPS and extractable pediatric clinical data. Two reviewers independently screened records, assessed overlap, extracted data, and appraised reporting quality using Joanna Briggs Institute tools.

Results

Of 2208 database records, 20 reports were included in the core pediatric synthesis after removal of 976 duplicates and screening. Reports were concentrated in the Americas. Recurrent features included fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, myalgia, thrombocytopenia, hemoconcentration, pulmonary edema, respiratory failure, and shock. Severe cases required mechanical ventilation, vasoactive support, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and in some cases renal replacement therapy. Larger pediatric case series and surveillance-level reports reported mortality of approximately 33% to 37%. Evidence was predominantly case-based with variable reporting completeness.

Conclusions

Pediatric HCPS/HPS is rare but potentially rapidly fatal. Early suspicion in endemic regions or after rodent exposure, with prompt supportive critical care and timely consideration of advanced cardiopulmonary support, is central to management.

Source: 

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08998280.2026.2698359

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#Ribavirin post-exposure #prophylaxis for #Andes virus #exposure: a viewpoint

 

Summary

Andes virus (ANDV) is unique among hantaviruses because person-to-person transmission is possible. This raises questions on the relevance of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), particularly following high-risk household, healthcare-associated, or laboratory exposures, considering its high case fatality rate. Ribavirin has demonstrated antiviral activity against hantaviruses in vitro and in animal models, although clinical evidence supporting its use for ANDV remains extremely limited. This viewpoint summarises the currently available evidence regarding ribavirin as PEP after potential ANDV exposure. We discuss the knowledge gaps that may limit the applicability of ribavirin PEP, to make informed decisions on the use of ribavirin in the setting of PEP. Potential dosing strategies are visualised by modelling and simulation, and potential dose and duration are discussed. Although the biological rationale for ribavirin PEP appears compelling, absence of controlled human studies and potential toxicity currently limit its role to highly selected exposure scenarios and use shortly after exposure.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(26)00270-7/fulltext

____

First nationwide full- #genome characterisation of #human-derived #Andes virus in #Chile: a retrospective genomic #epidemiology study

Summary

Background

Andes virus (ANDV) is the only hantavirus known to transmit between humans and causes hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome in Chile and Argentina. In Chile, ANDV genomic diversity remains incompletely characterised. This study aimed to characterise the genetic diversity, geographical structure, and molecular signatures of ANDV using human clinical samples collected over a 13-year period (2011–24).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective genomic epidemiology study of ANDV infections in Chile. Clinical samples from patients with confirmed ANDV, collected between March 9, 2011, and June 27, 2024, were analysed and sequenced. Clinical and epidemiological data were obtained from diagnostic laboratories and surveillance programmes. Consensus sequences for the S, M, and L segments were generated, and genetic clustering and divergence were assessed using phylogenetic inference and variant calling.

Findings

We analysed clinical samples from 58 infected individuals and identified two major genomic variants of ANDV with distinct geographical distributions, defined by regionally structured patterns of nucleotide and amino acid substitutions across the S, M, and L segments: ANDV Chi-North (central Chile) and ANDV-South (southern Chile). No consistent clustering by clinical severity was observed, and no recurrent non-synonymous substitutions were uniquely associated with severe disease. Substitutions previously associated with person-to-person transmission in outbreaks in Argentina were not consistently observed in Chilean sequences, including in four person-to-person transmission cases. Although some substitutions described in ANDV-like viruses were present in the Chi-North lineage, this lineage remained phylogenetically distinct and geographically restricted to central Chile.

Interpretation

To our knowledge, this study provides the first nationwide genomic characterisation of human-derived ANDV in Chile. The identification of geographically structured variants indicates that ANDV diversity in Chile is driven by regional diversification rather than clinical outcome. The absence of consistent amino acid signatures associated with disease severity or person-to-person transmission suggests that these phenotypes are unlikely to be explained by viral genetic variation alone. These findings refine current understanding of ANDV evolution and highlight the need for continued integrated genomic surveillance in endemic regions.

Funding

Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo de Chile and National Institutes of Health.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanmic/article/PIIS2666-5247(26)00109-6/fulltext

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#Andes Virus — A #Clinical #Review

 

Summary

Andes virus (ANDV) is the sole orthohantavirus with documented human-to-human transmission. We summarize the epidemiology and clinical features of ANDV infection and review best practices in clinical management, as based on published expert consensus guidelines, field experience, and clinical trials. We also evaluate currently available and investigational treatments (including the use of antiviral agents), assess emerging monoclonal antibody therapies, and outline prospects for vaccine development. Finally, we discuss important infection prevention and control measures.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra2606651?query=TOC

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#Neurological Manifestations of #Hantavirus Infection - A Review

 

Abstract

Importance  

Hantaviruses have caused several recent human disease outbreaks. They carry a high mortality rate, and some species can spread from person to person although they are typically spread from rodents to humans. Neurological complications have been documented but are poorly understood.

Observations

Broadly, 2 types of syndromes have been associated with hantaviruses. The pulmonary syndrome carries a high mortality rate and can result in pulmonary and cardiac failure. Neurological involvement is typically secondary to hypoxic and ischemic injury or metabolic dysfunction. Another manifestation of the infection that is associated with some species of the virus is termed hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Some patients may develop a meningoencephalitis or pituitary apoplexy resulting in sudden visual loss and pituitary dysfunction. Rarely, seizures, myelitis, and peripheral neuropathy may occur. Although there are no specific antiviral drugs approved for treatment of hantavirus, there are several that showed efficacy in preclinical trials. Management is supportive care and treatment of symptoms.

Conclusions and Relevance  

Neurological manifestations of hantavirus infection are uncommon but can be severe. Prospective studies and experimental models are needed to better characterize these manifestations, understand pathophysiology, identify therapeutic targets, and develop guidelines for management.

Source: 

Link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2851731

____

#Hantavirus #outbreak linked to cruise #ship travel, Multi-locations (WHO, July 3 '26): End of the Event

 

Situation at a glance

    This is the fifth Disease Outbreak News posting on the Andes hantavirus (ANDV) outbreak linked to the cruise ship M/V Hondius. 

    The outbreak identification followed the notification to the World Health Organization (WHO) on 2 May 2026 of severe acute respiratory illness cases onboard. 

    Since the previous Disease Outbreak News was published on 28 May 2026, one of the probable cases from Tristan da Cunha, an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (hereafter referred to as the United Kingdom), was laboratory confirmed. 

    As of 2 July, a total of 13 cases, including three deaths, have been notified (case fatality ratio 23%). 

    Twelve cases have been laboratory-confirmed for ANDV infection, and one is a probable case. 

    All confirmed cases are among individuals who travelled onboard the M/V Hondius. 

    Among the ten cases admitted to hospitals, eight have recovered and have been discharged, while two are still undergoing medical treatment. 

    All identified contacts have completed the 42 day follow-up period by local health authorities in line with WHO guidance. 

    The completion of the contact follow up without detection of additional secondary cases demonstrates effective interruption of transmission and confirms outbreak containment. 

    This outbreak no longer poses a public health risk and no further related transmission is expected.

Description of the situation

    On 2 May 2026, in accordance with the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR), WHO received a notification from the National IHR Focal Point (NFP) of the United Kingdom of a cluster of severe acute respiratory illness aboard the Netherlands-flagged cruise ship M/V Hondius, with further details rapidly notified authorities in the Netherlands and South Africa.

    As of 2 July, a total of 13 cases (12 confirmed and one probable case), including three deaths (two confirmed and one probable), have been reported globally linked to the cruise ship. 

    The case fatality ratio for this outbreak to date is 23%. 

    Since the last Disease Outbreak News was published on 28 May 2026, ANDV infection was laboratory confirmed in a probable case in Tristan da Cunha who developed signs and symptoms after disembarkation from the cruise ship. 

    The early detection and isolation of the case prevented further transmission of the virus, but the limited diagnostic capacities on the island delayed the confirmation of the case until a sample was shipped and tested in the United Kingdom. 

    The patient has recovered and has been discharged.

    Among the confirmed cases admitted to hospital, eight have recovered and been discharged, while two, one in South Africa and one in France, continue to be hospitalized. 

    All 13 cases are among people who travelled on board the M/V Hondius.

(...)

    Nine of the reported cases were males, and four were females. The median age was 65-years-old (IQR 56-70), similar to the median age of the passengers onboard the ship (...). The ages of the three deceased cases were 69, 70 and 79-years-old.

(...)

    Currently available information suggests that infection of initial cases was likely acquired on land prior to embarkation, although the exact source and route of exposure remain undetermined, with subsequent human-to-human transmission occurring aboard the vessel. 

    Investigations remain underway to establish the circumstances and source of the outbreak, including genomic sequencing of ANDV samples from surveillance cases in Chile and Argentina, and will be published as soon as these are available.

    This outbreak was managed through a coordinated international response, which included comprehensive epidemiological investigations, case isolation and clinical management, medical evacuations, laboratory testing, repatriation of passengers and crew from the ship and international contact tracing, as well as quarantine and monitoring measures.

    Contact identification and follow-up of contacts of hantavirus cases linked to the cruise ship has been conducted in 33 countries and overseas territories. 

    This included passengers and crew onboard the ship, contacts of the case on Tristan da Cunha, contacts from two different international flights, healthcare workers and airport crew who assisted cases before the detection of the outbreak. 

    As of 2 July 2026, 317 high-risk contacts have completed quarantine and monitoring by local health authorities in the countries and territories where they were repatriated, evacuated or identified. 

    Some 336 low-risk contacts completed self-monitoring in line with the updated guidance on management of contacts of Andes virus (ANDV) cases from the MV Hondius cruise ship published on 17 May 2026. 

Epidemiology

    Hantavirus disease is a zoonotic viral disease caused by hantaviruses of the genus Orthohantavirus, family Hantaviridae, order Elliovirales, class Bunyaviricetes. More than 20 viral species have been identified within this genus. 

    Human hantavirus infection is primarily acquired through contact with the urine, faeces, or saliva of certain species of (specific) infected rodents, or by touching contaminated surfaces. 

    Exposure typically occurs during activities such as cleaning buildings with rodent infestations, though it may also occur during routine activities in heavily infested areas. 

    Human cases are most commonly reported in rural settings, such as forests, fields, and farms, where rodents are present and opportunities for exposure are greater.

    Limited human-to-human transmission has currently only been reported for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) associated with ANDV virus infection. 

    ANDV is endemic in South America, with confirmed circulation and human infections reported primarily in Argentina and Chile, and additional cases and related strains identified in Uruguay, southern Brazil, and Paraguay.

Andes virus transmission between humans

    Based on the available information and the existing observations of the current outbreak, limited human-to-human transmission of ANDV is known to occur. 

    However, no large-scale human-to-human outbreaks have been observed historically.[1] 

    ANDV circulates in specific species of rodents in the Americas, and there have been many sporadic cases reported in Argentina and Chile that have not led to onward transmission.[2]  

    Clusters of human cases have been reported in multiple past outbreaks and have been typically associated with close and prolonged interactions, often in shared indoor environments such as households.  

    The largest reported outbreak of ANDV was reported in Argentina in 2018-2019,2 where high viral titres in combination with attendance at large social gatherings or extensive contacts among people were associated with higher transmission.  

    While the available evidence suggests that there are multiple modes of transmission that occur with ANDV, the probability of onward transmission between humans remains low.

    Initial epidemiological investigation and the genomics analysis[3] of the identified cases show that in this outbreak of ANDV infection, human-to-human transmission has occurred on the ship. 

    While detailed information on the interaction between cases or with a contaminated environment aboard the ship is currently not available, these exact modes of transmission might be elucidated by upcoming results from an in-depth epidemiological investigation, as well as publication of the environmental sampling performed after the disembarkation.  

Response activities operated under the assumption that ANDV transmission:

    ° may have included contact with an infected individual or contaminated surfaces;

    ° and/or through-the-air transmission (via direct deposition of infectious respiratory particles onto exposed facial mucosal surfaces—mouth, nose, or eyes);

    ° and/or airborne transmission (via inhalation of infectious respiratory particles).

    Given the attack rate among the ship passengers, as well as the absence of secondary cases among contacts off the ship, the virus did not exhibit transmission dynamics consistent with highly transmissible airborne pathogens (such as measles).

Public health response

    Authorities from States Parties managing cases and/or contacts, WHO, and partners such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control have coordinated response measures, including:

        ° Ongoing engagement between WHO and the NFPs of countries managing cases and/or contacts ensured timely information sharing and coordination of response actions.

        ° International contact tracing and follow-up of contacts was conducted by local health authorities in line with national arrangements.

        ° WHO requested regular information sharing and periodic updates from States Parties through IHR channels regarding the follow-up of contacts and their health status.

        ° Ongoing epidemiological investigations to define epidemiological links between cases and exposure factors on the ship, as well as to try to understand the potential source of exposure.

    A prospective natural history study designed to improve understanding of Andes virus (ANDV) transmission dynamics, incubation periods, immune responses, viral kinetics, and the determinants of severe disease through harmonised longitudinal follow-up of exposed individuals. The study uses a standardised prospective protocol implemented across 21 participating countries.[4]

    WHO developed and published specific technical guidance documents to support response to the event, including:

        ° Technical guidance on the management of hantavirus onboard ships was shared with States Parties through IHR channels

        ° Technical note for the disembarkation and onward management of passengers and crew in the context of an ANDV-associated cluster;

        ° Management of contacts of Andes Virus (ANDV) cases from the MV Hondius cruise ship

        ° Laboratory testing of Andes virus (Orthohantavirus andesense) infection: Interim guidance

    The NFPs of countries managing cases and/or contacts have been exchanging passenger- and crew-related information.

    WHO provided risk communication coordination and support, ensured timely evidence-based information sharing, activated the coordination mechanisms across the three organizational levels, and supported national authorities in implementing public health measures, including in accordance with IHR provisions.

    WHO convened regular Member State briefings, expert discussions covering key technical, laboratory, clinical care and infection prevention and control (IPC) topics, and global webinars via the EPI-WIN knowledge platform to facilitate experience sharing and coordinate support.

    WHO supported the development of research protocols with national and international partners and planned a hantavirus consultation on medical countermeasures.

    WHO coordinated the distribution of the laboratory testing and reference materials made available by Chile and Argentina, as well as diagnostic protocols and information on available test kits and their performance.

WHO risk assessment

    The ANDV outbreak associated with the MV Hondius cruise ship no longer poses a public health risk and no further related transmission is expected.  

    ANDV remains endemic in South America, and it is associated with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome with substantial case fatality, its transmissibility remains limited, typically requiring close and prolonged exposure, and tends to result in temporally and spatially restricted clusters.

    While the confined maritime environment of this event likely facilitated transmission during the voyage, epidemiological and genomic evidence supports a point source outbreak, originating either from contact with an infected animal or infected person, followed by limited chains of human-to-human secondary transmission, without evidence of sustained transmission.

    The completion of the 42-day follow-up period for all identified contacts without further detection of additional secondary cases demonstrates effective interruption of transmission and confirms outbreak containment. 

    Additionally, IPC measures continue to be applied for the management of the two cases still hospitalized.

WHO advice

    WHO advises all countries to sustain strong engagement and collaboration to document and learn from this outbreak response, including both successes and operational challenges, and to apply the lessons identified to strengthen preparedness, surveillance including international tracing and follow up of contacts, clinical care, IPC, risk communication, and response capacities for future public health emergencies.

    WHO further encourages the continuation of epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and ecological studies to better understand the outbreak, its transmission dynamics, risk factors, and determinants of disease severity.

    In areas where hantavirus is endemic, WHO recommends strengthening measures to prevent and control transmission through enhanced surveillance, public awareness, environmental management, reduction of exposure to rodent reservoirs and contaminated environments, and early detection, implementation of IPC measures and management of cases.

    WHO also encourages continued investment in research and development to advance the availability of effective diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines, and to improve preparedness and response capabilities for future hantavirus outbreaks.

Further information

    ° World Health Organization. Management of contacts of Andes virus (ANDV) cases from the MV Hondius cruise ship. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/management-of-contacts-of-andes-virus-(andv)-cases-fromthe-mv-hondius-cruise-ship

    ° World Health Organization. WHO Technical note for the disembarkation and onward management of passengers and crew in the context of an Andes virus-associated cluster MV Hondius cruise ship. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/who-technical-note-for-the-disembarkation-and-onward-management-of-passengers-and-crew-in-the-context-of-an-andes-virus-associated-cluster-mv-hondius-cruise-ship

    ° World Health Organization. Hantavirus fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hantavirus 

    ° World Health Organization. WHO’s response to hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship. https://www.who.int/news/item/07-05-2026-who-s-response-to-hantavirus-cases-linked-to-a-cruise-ship

    ° World Health Organization. Handbook for management of public health events on board ships. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549462

    ° World Health Organization. Guide to Ship Sanitation, 3rd edition https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241546690

    ° World Health Organization. Handbook for management of public health events in air transport, https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241510165

    ° World Health Organization. Guide to hygiene and sanitation in aviation, 3rd edition, https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241547772

    ° Preliminary analysis of Orthohantavirus andesense virus sequences from a cruise-ship related cluster, May 2026. https://virological.org/t/preliminary-analysis-of-orthohantavirus-andesense-virus-sequences-from-a-cruise-ship-related-cluster-may-2026/1029

    ° World Health Organization. Standard precautions for the prevention and control of infections: aide-memoire. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-UHL-IHS-IPC-2022.1

    ° World Health Organization. Transmission-based precautions for the prevention and control of infections: aide-memoire. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-UHL-IHS-IPC-2022.2

    ° World Health Organization. Hantavirus outbreak toolbox. https://www.who.int/emergencies/outbreak-toolkit/disease-outbreak-toolboxes/hantavirus-outbreak-toolbox

    ° World Health Organization (8 May 2026). Disease Outbreak News. Hantavirus cluster linked to cruise ship travel, Multi-country. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON600

    ° World Health Organization (4 May 2026). Disease Outbreak News. Hantavirus cluster linked to cruise ship travel- Multi-country. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON599

    ° World Health Organization. A decision framework for effective, equitable and context-specific public health and social measures during public health emergencies: decision navigator: https://iris.who.int/server/api/core/bitstreams/ceaf4aa7-00c8-4681-9c35-965e231a3706/content

    ° World Health Organization Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar: Hantavirus in Focus I: what we know and what it means. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2026/05/20/default-calendar/hantavirus-in-focus-i-what-we-know-and-what-it-means

    ° World Health Organization Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar: Hantavirus in Focus II: hantavirus natural history, infection control and clinical management of patients in hospital. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2026/05/22/default-calendar/who-health-emergencies-epi-win-webinar-hantavirus-in-focus-ii-hantavirus-in-an-international-maritime-setting-natural-history-infection-control-and-clinical-management-of-patients-in-hospital

    ° World Health Organization Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar: Hantavirus in focus III: reflections from the IHR Border Health and Points of Entry perspective. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2026/06/04/default-calendar/who-health-emergencies-epi-win-webinar--hantavirus-in-focus-iiireflections-from-a-border-health-and-point-of-entry-perspective

    ° World Health Organization Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar: Hantavirus in focus IV: Infection prevention and control: from isolation to safe discharge and quarantine. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2026/06/16/default-calendar/who-health-emergencies-epi-win-webinar-hantavirus-in-focus-iv-infection-prevention-and-control-from-isolation-to-safe-discharge-and-quarantine

    ° Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Infection prevention and control of hantavirus infection, including Andes virus disease. Interim regional guidance for suspected or confirmed cases. https://iris.paho.org/items/bc5a7b5a-5a0a-4407-829e-663c762ad615

    ° Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. Clinical management of hantavirus infection, including Andes virus disease: Interim regional guidance for suspected or confirmed cases. https://iris.paho.org/items/0fa0dcb1-4395-467d-a431-5408b4eff337    

    ° Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization. PAHO supports the international response to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome cases linked to a cruise ship in the Atlantic. https://www.paho.org/en/news/7-5-2026-paho-supports-international-response-hantavirus-pulmonary-syndrome-cases-linked

    ° Epidemiological Alert Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. https://www.paho.org/en/documents/epidemiological-alert-hantavirus-pulmonary-syndrome-americas-region-19-december-2025  

    ° Hantavirus in the Americas: Guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control. Available at: https://iris.paho.org/handle/10665.2/40176

    ° Hantavirus Prevention, CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/prevention/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/hantavirus/hps/prevention.html

    ° Martínez Valeria, Paola N, et al. (2020). “Super-Spreaders” and Person-to-Person Transmission of Andes Virus in Argentina. New England Journal of Medicine. 383. 2230-2241. 10.1056/NEJMoa2009040.

    ° US CDC. How to Clean Up After Rodents: https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/rodent-control/clean-up.html

    ° Hantavirus, Washington State Department of Heath, https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2025-08/420-056-Guideline-Hantavirus.pdf

    ° Hantavirus Infection, MDS Manual, professional version: https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/arboviruses-arenaviridae-and-filoviridae/hantavirus-infection

    ° Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hantavirus-pulmonary-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351838

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    [1] “Super-Spreaders” and Person-to-Person Transmission of Andes Virus in Argentina | New England Journal of Medicine. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2009040

    [2] Padula PJ, Edelstein A, Miguel SD, López NM, Rossi CM, Rabinovich RD. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome outbreak in Argentina: molecular evidence for person-to-person transmission of Andes virus. Virology. 1998 Feb 15;241(2):323-30. doi: 10.1006/viro.1997.8976. PMID: 9499807.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9499807/

    [3] Preliminary analysis of Orthohantavirus andesense virus sequences from a cruise-ship related cluster, May 2026. https://virological.org/t/preliminary-analysis-of-orthohantavirus-andesense-virus-sequences-from-a-cruise-ship-related-cluster-may-2026/1029

    [4] Twenty-one countries launch coordinated Andes virus research initiative following hantavirus outbreak. https://www.who.int/news/item/12-06-2026-twenty-one-countries-launch-coordinated-andes-virus-research-initiative-following-hantavirus-outbreak  

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Citable reference: World Health Organization (2 July 2026). Disease Outbreak News. Hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship travel, Multi-locations. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON611

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON611

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#Hantavirus #stability and #inactivation

 

Abstract

Hantaviruses are zoonotic viruses that can cause highly pathogenic disease, including hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), in humans with case-fatality rates of up to 50%. However, our understanding of the basic viral life cycle and the underlying causes of viral pathogenesis remains sparse, in large part due to a lack of molecular biology tools for hantaviruses and the need to work in high-containment laboratory facilities with these viruses. The stability and inactivation of hantavirus particles has been examined in some limited previous studies, however, a comprehensive, detailed and robust investigation of the stability of multiple hantaviruses has not been performed yet. Here, we investigated the kinetics of infectious Tula virus (TULV) particle production in Vero E6 cells and subsequent stability in cell culture media. In addition, we evaluated the stability of infectious virus particles in response to different physical and environmental stresses, including heat, freezing, dehydration and UV exposure, answering key questions about the environmental transmission potential of hantaviruses. Interestingly, we observed a remarkable stability of TULV when stored at room temperature or colder, as well as after dehydration, which suggests that hantaviruses could remain infectious for a sustained period of time after being secreted by their host species. Subsequently, we determined the ability of commonly used virus inactivation methods, including RNA and protein extraction buffers, to inactivate TULV both in a cell-free and cell-associated context and found that TULV was efficiently inactivated by all these methods similar to other enveloped RNA viruses. Finally, we successfully validated the complete inactivation using these inactivation methods using the highly pathogenic HCPS-causing New World Andes virus (ANDV) and the HFRS-causing Old World Hantaan virus (HTNV). These results provide valuable information about safe and effective inactivation methods of viral samples and about the environmental risk potential of hantaviruses.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0013781

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#Andes Virus on a Cruise #Ship, what it Tells us About the #Global #Pandemic #Preparedness Agenda

 

Summary

The outbreak of hantavirus disease caused by Andes virus aboard a cruise ship is a reminder of the challenges posed by emerging diseases in the modern era. While Andes virus-associated disease can be particularly severe, it is unlikely to spread extensively beyond the current number of cases or emerge as a large epidemic, especially if public health measures are followed. Nonetheless, the outbreak exemplifies the complexity of international outbreak response with differences in national preparedness frameworks and the rapid spread of mis-/disinformation. We discuss this outbreak in the context of global epidemic and pandemic preparedness and emphasize the importance of sustained, inclusive global collaborative One Health approaches to preparedness and response. We stress the urgent need for global coordination, discuss specific challenges, and provide recommendations for further strengthening of global preparedness.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(26)00167-5/fulltext

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