Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship: What You Need to Know About the Rare Disease

An outbreak of hantavirus aboard an expedition cruise ship has raised concerns about the rare but potentially deadly disease. As of May 6, three passengers have died from acute respiratory illness, and several additional cases are suspected among passengers and crew.

Health officials are investigating whether the virus—typically spread from rodents to humans—may have spread between people on board the ship. While person-to-person transmission is rare, it remains a concerning possibility.

Marieke Rosenbaum, assistant professor in the infectious disease and global health department at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, has been studying whether rats in Boston carry hantavirus. She shares key insights about the virus, the ship outbreak, and how to protect against this rodent-borne disease.

What Is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a family of viruses primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine, or saliva. The most common strain in North America, the Sin Nombre virus, can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a severe respiratory illness with a high fatality rate.

How Does Hantavirus Spread?

Hantavirus is most commonly spread when:

• Inhaling dust contaminated with rodent urine or droppings.
• Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with rodent waste and then touching the face.
• Being bitten by an infected rodent (rare).

Person-to-person transmission is extremely rare but has been reported in some cases, particularly in South America with the Andes virus. Health officials are now examining whether this occurred during the cruise ship outbreak.

Symptoms of Hantavirus Infection

Symptoms of HPS typically appear within 1 to 6 weeks after exposure and may include:

• Fever and chills
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath, which worsens as the disease progresses

Early medical intervention is critical, as HPS can rapidly become life-threatening.

Protecting Yourself from Hantavirus

To reduce the risk of hantavirus exposure, follow these precautions:

• Avoid contact with rodents and their nests. Seal gaps or holes in buildings to prevent rodent entry.
• Clean rodent-infested areas safely. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning areas with rodent droppings. Use disinfectant to wet down droppings before removal to avoid inhaling dust.
• Keep food sealed and stored properly. Store food in rodent-proof containers and maintain cleanliness in living spaces.
• Use traps or professional pest control. If rodents are present, use traps or contact pest control services to remove them safely.
• Stay informed during outbreaks. Follow guidelines from health authorities if a hantavirus case is reported in your area.

Expert Insights on the Cruise Ship Outbreak

"The possibility of person-to-person transmission of hantavirus is rare but concerning, especially in close quarters like a cruise ship. Health officials are conducting thorough investigations to determine the source and spread of the virus." — Marieke Rosenbaum, Tufts University

The cruise ship outbreak highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing rodent-borne diseases, even in unexpected settings. While hantavirus is rare, understanding its transmission and symptoms can help protect public health.