The Andes virus-a rare but deadly pathogen-has been identified as the cause of a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. This strain is the only hantavirus known to spread between people.
The World Health Organization reports eight confirmed and suspected cases linked to the ship. Three passengers have died, including one with a confirmed infection. At least two others are receiving care for confirmed cases.
The virus was identified by the Centre for Emerging Viral Diseases of the Geneva University Hospital, a WHO collaborating center. Samples from a patient treated in Zurich, Switzerland, tested positive. The patient presented himself after the ship's operator alerted passengers.
While concerning, experts say the virus does not transmit as easily as respiratory viruses like COVID-19 or the flu. However, vigilance and isolation of suspected cases remain critical, as there is no specific cure for hantavirus infection.
Investigations continue. Three suspected cases were evacuated to the Netherlands on May 5. The remaining passengers are expected to travel to the Canary Islands for a full epidemiological investigation and ship disinfection.