Hantavirus Is Not COVID-19, Risk to Public Remains Low

Kuala Lumpur — The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasised that the Hantavirus outbreak reported on a cruise ship will not spread like COVID-19, and the overall risk to the general public remains low.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, along with technical expert Maria Van Kerkhove, clarified that this virus is very different from coronaviruses. Most transmissions occur from rodents to humans, not through sustained human-to-human spread.

Background of the Case

Seven confirmed cases of Hantavirus were detected among passengers on the Dutch-flagged cruise ship MV Hondius, which is sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. Several cases are reported to be serious. Spanish authorities are preparing to receive the ship in Tenerife.

Despite public concern, WHO stressed:

•  There is no evidence of widespread community transmission.

•  Spanish authorities have implemented strict monitoring and preventive measures.

•  The risk to residents of Tenerife and the global public remains low.

What is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a rodent-borne virus typically transmitted through contact with urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rats or mice. Symptoms can include fever, muscle pain, and in severe cases, it can affect the lungs or kidneys. While the fatality rate can be high in serious cases, the virus does not spread easily between people like COVID-19.

WHO & Expert Advice

•  Avoid contact with rodents and contaminated areas.

•  Standard hygiene practices are sufficient.

•  There are no signs that this will develop into a global pandemic.

Medical teams in Tenerife are on standby to manage the passengers with strict health protocols upon arrival.