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Health experts probe hantavirus cases tied to cruise ships, a rare rodent borne virus that can cause deadly lung failure, urging stricter pest control and prompt care.
Health experts probe hantavirus cases tied to cruise ships, a rare rodent borne virus that can cause deadly lung failure, urging stricter pest control and prompt care. (Image: Reuters)
Recent hantavirus-linked illnesses connected to cruise ship travel have triggered fresh concerns among health experts, putting the spotlight back on a rare but potentially deadly virus spread mainly through rodents.
While infections remain uncommon, doctors warn that hantavirus can rapidly turn severe and, in some cases, become fatal within days.
What Is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a group of viruses primarily spread through rodents, especially rats and mice. Humans usually become infected after coming into contact with rodent urine, saliva or droppings.
People can also contract the virus by inhaling tiny airborne particles contaminated by rodent waste, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.
Unlike Covid-19 or influenza, hantavirus does not generally spread easily from person to person.
Why Are Cruise Ships Being Linked To It?
Health officials are investigating recent cases reportedly associated with cruise ship travel.
Experts believe infected rodents may have accessed cargo storage zones, food supplies, waste disposal sections or maintenance areas onboard ships.
Cruise ships can create unique challenges because thousands of passengers and crew share enclosed environments, making it harder to quickly identify where exposure may have happened.
So far, there is no indication of widespread human-to-human transmission on ships.
What Are The Symptoms?
Early hantavirus symptoms often resemble the flu, making diagnosis difficult in the initial stages.
Common symptoms include:
FeverMuscle achesHeadachesFatigueNausea and vomiting
In serious cases, the illness can progress rapidly into severe breathing problems and lung failure, a condition known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS).
Doctors warn that symptoms can worsen suddenly within a few days.
How Dangerous Is It?
Hantavirus infections are rare but can be deadly.
According to health experts, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome has a high fatality rate if not treated quickly. There is currently no specific antiviral cure, so treatment mainly focuses on supportive hospital care, including oxygen support and intensive monitoring.
Early medical intervention significantly improves survival chances.
Where Has Hantavirus Been Found Before?
Cases have previously been reported in the United States, parts of South America and Asia, often in areas with rodent infestations.
Outbreaks are usually linked to exposure in cabins, farms, warehouses, campsites or abandoned buildings where rodents are present.
Why Experts Are Concerned Now
The renewed attention on hantavirus comes as global travel continues to rebound and health agencies remain alert to infectious disease risks tied to crowded transportation systems.
Experts are urging cruise operators to strengthen pest control, sanitation and food storage measures to reduce the chances of rodent contamination onboard vessels.
Travellers are also being advised to seek medical attention if they develop severe flu-like symptoms after potential rodent exposure.
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
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