By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): Health officials around the world are monitoring an outbreak of hantavirus linked to the cruise ship *MV Hondius*, after several passengers became infected and three people died following the vessel’s departure from Argentina.
The World Health Organization confirmed that five infections have been identified among passengers and crew connected to the ship. Those who tested positive or are under monitoring are spread across several countries including the Netherlands, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, Canada and France.
According to WHO officials, the outbreak has been linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus, a rare but dangerous virus that can sometimes spread between humans through close contact. The virus is normally transmitted through contact with infected rodents, especially rats and mice.
The first suspected victim, a 70-year-old Dutch passenger, reportedly became ill with fever, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhea before dying aboard the vessel on April 11.
Health experts believe the first infected passengers may have contracted the virus during sightseeing activities in Argentina before boarding the ship. WHO says hantavirus symptoms can take between one and six weeks to appear after exposure.
Despite growing international concern, WHO stressed that the outbreak is not expected to become a global pandemic similar to COVID-19 and says there is currently no evidence of widespread transmission risk.
Officials continue to conduct international contact tracing while passengers and crew are monitored for symptoms.
The post What Belizeans need to know about the deadly hantavirus outbreak appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): Health officials around the world are monitoring an outbreak of hantavirus linked to the cruise ship *MV Hondius*, after several passengers became infected and three people died following the vessel’s departure from Argentina. The World Health Organization confirmed that five infections have been identified among passengers and crew connected
The post What Belizeans need to know about the deadly hantavirus outbreak appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
