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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — An outbreak of a rodent-borne illness suspected to have originated on a cruise ship has resulted in three fatalities and multiple
illnesses among passengers. The illness, identified as hantavirus, has been confirmed in one of the affected individuals. The World Health Organization is conducting ongoing investigations into the outbreak, which includes extensive laboratory testing. Such outbreaks of gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses are not uncommon on cruise ships, where close quarters facilitate the spread of contagious germs.
Background on Hantavirus
Hantavirus is not typically associated with cruise ships and is not easily transmitted between humans. It has a long history, with outbreaks documented in Asia and Europe, but a new group of hantaviruses emerged in the southwestern United States in the early 1990s, leading to acute respiratory disease known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.The disease received renewed attention last year following the death of Betsy Arakawa, wife of late actor Gene Hackman, from a hantavirus infection in New Mexico.
Transmission and Risk Factors
Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their excretions, particularly when disturbed and aerosolized. Common exposure occurs in residential areas, cabins, or sheds, especially during cleaning activities in poorly ventilated spaces.While rare, the World Health Organization notes that hantaviruses can occasionally spread between people. Steven Bradfute, an associate professor specializing in hantavirus research, indicated that a strain endemic to Argentina and Chile is capable of person-to-person transmission, although this typically occurs in close-contact scenarios.
Bradfute stated, “We haven't had huge person-to-person spreads of hantavirus infection ever before and there's no reason to suspect a huge outbreak from this case at this point.”
Symptoms and Severity of Infection
Infection with hantavirus can lead to severe health complications, beginning with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. Symptoms typically manifest between one and eight weeks after exposure to an infected rodent. As the disease progresses, patients may experience chest tightness due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.There are two known syndromes associated with hantavirus: hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which has a fatality rate of about 35%, and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, with death rates ranging from 1% to 15%.
Research and Treatment Challenges
Currently, there is no specific treatment or cure for hantavirus, but early medical intervention can improve survival rates. Research into the disease remains limited, with many questions unanswered regarding its varying severity among individuals and the development of antibodies.Bradfute commented on the rarity of hantavirus infections in the Americas, stating, “In the Americas, hantavirus infection is very serious, but it's also quite rare.” He emphasized the importance of rodent exposure prevention to mitigate risks.
Public health experts recommend minimizing contact with rodents and using protective measures when cleaning areas where rodent droppings may be present.
Global Perspectives on Hantavirus
The term hantavirus encompasses a broad family of viruses, with most strains not known to spread among humans. However, the strain potentially involved in the cruise ship outbreak is under investigation, especially given the cruise's origin in Argentina.Angela Luis, a researcher at the University of Montana, stated that a thorough investigation is essential to determine the circumstances surrounding the outbreak, suggesting that valuable insights may emerge from this situation.
