Hantavirus

May 2026 Hantavirus Outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) was notified on May 2, 2026, of a possible hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Multiple cases, including some fatal cases, have been reported so far. It is possible that there will be more cases. That is because it can take up to six weeks for symptoms to develop after an exposure. For the latest case counts and updates, visit WHO’s website or follow WHO on social media. 

The current outbreak is caused by a type of hantavirus called Andes virus. 

• Andes virus is unique. It is the only hantavirus that has been shown to spread from person to person.
• This spread between people is rare and has only been shown to occur after people start showing symptoms. 
• Signs and symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) due to Andes virus appear 4 to 42 days after exposure.

VDH believes the risk of this outbreak to the public is very low. Virginians can safely continue with their routine travel as planned. 

The federal government coordinated the return of 18 U.S. citizens who were on the ship on May 11.  

• These citizens traveled by private plane and are being evaluated in specialized medical facilities.
• Anyone who develops symptoms will be quickly isolated and evaluated by healthcare providers. 
• When passengers are cleared to safely return to their home state by private travel, state and local public health professionals will continue to monitor their health.
• See CDC’s Frequently Asked Questions for more details about the passengers.

VDH is closely monitoring this situation. To date, one Virginia traveler disembarked the ship before the outbreak was identified. This person has returned home and is currently under public health symptom monitoring. If other exposed Virginia residents return to Virginia, VDH will monitor their health and advise them on public health precautions to protect themselves and others. To protect privacy, VDH will not share more details about exposed people. Information about this outbreak is changing quickly. VDH will update this website as we learn new information. 

About Andes Virus Infection

Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that are found in some wild rodents around the world. Andes virus is a type of hantavirus found in South America.  

Andes virus can spread to people in several ways: 

• By contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva 
• By touching an object or surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your nose or mouth 
• Through close contact with a person who is sick with Andes virus 

Andes virus can cause a severe respiratory illness in people called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). HPS is rare but often deadly illness. If you might have had contact with someone with Andes virus and you have any of the symptoms listed below, call your healthcare provider or your local health department immediately.  

• Illness often begins as a flu-like illness 4−42 days after contact with the virus.  
• Early symptoms can include headache, fever, muscle ache or back pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. 
• Symptoms can quickly worsen. Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, and difficulty breathing might occur.  
• Up to forty percent of people with HPS can die from the disease.  
• There is no specific treatment for Andes virus infection or HPS. Supportive care includes treatment of symptoms, rest, and hydration. Early medical care at a facility with an intensive care unit can improve survival. 

Resources for the public and healthcare providers are listed below.