The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided a critical update regarding a health crisis aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, confirming that a hantavirus outbreak involves the Andes virus.
During an online briefing held on Thursday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed that five of the eight reported cases on the vessel have been laboratory-confirmed as hantavirus infections specifically caused by the Andes virus. The outbreak has taken a severe toll, resulting in three deaths.
According to the Director-General, while five symptomatic individuals have been confirmed, three other cases remain under suspicion. Current reports indicate that no other passengers or crew members on the ship are showing symptoms at this time.
The WHO is continuing to monitor the situation closely. Director-General Tedros noted that the organization is aware of reports concerning other individuals who may have developed symptoms after coming into contact with a passenger. The WHO is working in close coordination with the relevant health authorities to track and manage these cases to prevent further spread.
Reference(s):
Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship involves Andes virus: WHO
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