Cruise ship hantavirus outbreak: ECDC response activated
'Many uncertainties still remain with this hantavirus outbreak and it is important that we take a precautionary approach at this point in time to reduce the likelihood of further transmission. An ECDC expert is on the ship to gain more insights and inform public health action', says Dr Pamela Rendi-Wagner.
The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus, the only hantavirus which can be transmitted person-to-person, typically requiring close and prolonged contact. Measures are already in place on board to reduce the likelihood of infection among passengers and crew.
ECDC has today published a Threat Assessment Brief on the risk to Europe, including recommendations for passengers and crew onboard the cruise ship and advice for the handling of passengers upon arrival at the receiving point of entry in the EU.
Considering the limited epidemiological information currently available, the long incubation period of the virus, and the potential for person-to-person transmission of Andes hantavirus, precautionary measures, including the medical evacuation of symptomatic passengers, crew and close contacts , should be considered.
Based on the current evidence, the risk to the general population in Europe remains very low, and widespread transmission is not expected. Any transmission is likely to remain limited due to the nature of contact required and the infection prevention and control measures in place onboard and during disembarkation , and further follow-up.
Significant uncertainties remain, and investigations are ongoing to determine where and how individuals contracted the virus, and the extent of exposure among passengers and crew.
ECDC is working in coordination with relevant national authorities in Spain, the Netherlands, other EU/EEA countries, the United Kingdom, and WHO to assess the available information and support the public health response. ECDC is also collaborating with the EU reference laboratory for public health on emerging, rodent-borne and zoonotic viral pathogens to strengthen diagnostic capacity.
About hantavirus
Hantaviruses are viruses that can spread from animals to humans, most often when people inhale dust or small particles from infected rodents’ urine, droppings, or saliva, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. The Andes hantavirus, present in parts of South America, can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe disease characterised by fever and general symptoms followed by rapid respiratory distress and shock. Andes hantavirus is the only hantavirus for which person-to-person transmission has been described.
