Blog

1. What is the hantavirus and the Andes strain?

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses transmitted primarily through particles from infected rodents. They can cause severe illness, such as respiratory or renal failure. The Andes virus—implicated in the recent outbreak detected on a cruise ship on May 24, 2026—is a hantavirus found mainly in South America. This specific strain can cause a severe, life-threatening pulmonary infection known as “Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.”

1. How is it transmitted?

Primarily when someone inhales dust or droplets contaminated with rodent urine, feces, or saliva. Less frequently, it can be transmitted via a rodent bite or scratch.

2. Is it transmitted from person to person?

Usually not. The exception is the Andes virus, a hantavirus strain linked to rare instances of person-to-person transmission, typically following close and prolonged contact.

3. Why is this not considered the next pandemic?

Unlike COVID-19, the Andes hantavirus is not easily transmitted between humans. Furthermore, the natural rodent reservoir for the virus does not exist in Europe, making its spread unlikely.

4. Has the virus mutated or become more dangerous?

Genetic analysis has shown that the virus involved is similar to the Andes viruses already circulating in South America and is not a new variant.

5. Can former passengers and crew transmit the virus to their family members at home?

The possibility of limited person-to-person transmission cannot be ruled out, particularly involving close and prolonged contact. However, the likelihood of spread remains very low, especially if public health guidelines regarding self-quarantine—if deemed necessary—are followed.

6. I came into contact with someone who tested positive for the Andes hantavirus. What should I do?

Contact your local public health authorities; they will provide appropriate instructions regarding any necessary measures.

7. What are the early symptoms?

They often resemble the flu: fever, severe fatigue, muscle aches, headache, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

8. When does it become dangerous?

When symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, rapid respiratory deterioration, low blood pressure, or signs of pneumonia/respiratory distress appear. Immediate medical evaluation is required in such cases.

9. How quickly do symptoms appear?

Usually within 2–4 weeks after exposure, though they can appear anywhere from approximately 1 to 8 weeks later.

10. Is there a treatment?

There is no specific treatment for all types. Management is primarily supportive, and severe cases may require hospitalization or ICU care. Early detection is very helpful.

11. How can it be prevented?

By avoiding contact with rodents, sealing holes in the home, storing food properly, using traps where necessary, and carefully cleaning areas where mice may be present.

12. What should I avoid doing when cleaning an area where mice have been?

Do not sweep or vacuum up dry droppings or nests, as this can stir up contaminated dust. You should first ventilate the area and perform wet cleaning using a disinfectant.

13. When should I seek medical help?

If you experience fever, severe fatigue, or muscle pain following potential exposure to rodents or a contaminated area—and especially if a cough or shortness of breath develops—you need to contact a doctor immediately.