- What is hantavirus, and why is it attracting global attention now?
Hantavirus is a group of viruses primarily spread through contact with infected rodents. When contracted by humans, hantavirus can cause respiratory illness known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) or Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS). There are no known cures or vaccine for the disease.
In early May, an outbreak of the disease was reported aboard the MV Hondius which was sailing between Ushuaia (Argentina) and Tenerife (Spain). As of 12 May, six hantavirus infections have been confirmed, of which three have been fatal. Notably, the MV Hondius cluster is believed to be of the Andes variant which can be transmitted between humans.
- Which countries or regions are currently reporting hantavirus activity?
All confirmed and suspected cases of hantavirus are related to the MV Hondius cluster. Of the suspected and confirmed non-fatal infections, hospitalisation have been confirmed to Johannesburg (South Africa), Zurich (Switzerland), the Netherlands, Germany and Spain.
Health officials are also following up with passengers who disembarked the vessel in the British Overseas Territory of St Helena Island, in addition to those who have returned to their home countries which include Canada, Denmark, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. No infections outside of the MV Hondius cluster have been reported to date.
- Does the current hantavirus outbreak pose a risk to international travellers?
For most international travellers, the overall risk of hantavirus is considered low. While there is a likelihood that human-to-human transmission occurred aboard the MV Hondius, this was probably due to prolonged contact between infected patients.
Unlike the COVID-19 virus, hantavirus – including the Andes strain – is not as easily transmitted between persons not engaged in activities such as bedsharing, sexual interactions and patient care. Consequently, transport hubs and standard hospitality environments are not major transmission settings. Consequently, recreational and business travellers not engaged in activities which would place them in direct contact with infected rodents – or who are not involved in the care of infected persons – face a relatively low risk of exposure.
- What symptoms should travellers watch for before, during, and after travel?
Early symptoms of hantavirus are like influenza and may present as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, chills, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. In more severe cases, particularly with Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), symptoms progress more rapidly to include coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and respiratory distress. HPS often requires medical intervention in the form of oxygen support. Symptoms may present between two to eight weeks after exposure.
- What preventive measures should travellers take?
For most travellers, standard awareness and environmental hygiene measures are sufficient to mitigate against the disease. However, travellers engaged in activities that increase their exposure to rodents or infected persons may want to consider additional precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment (particularly gloves and facemasks) and ensuring that extensive pest control measures are in place.