Recent reports of a small hantavirus outbreak linked to the expedition vessel MV Hondius have understandably raised concerns across the cruise and travel industry. Any loss of life is tragic and cannot be minimised. However, it’s important to understand that these were isolated cases and the virus is very unlikely of becoming a pandemic.

This outbreak involved the Andes strain of hantavirus. In total, 11 confirmed cases and three fatalities were identified in the weeks following the ship’s departure from Ushuaia. Hantavirus is primarily associated with exposure to infected wild rodents and is most commonly transmitted through contaminated droppings, urine or saliva.

What makes the Andes strain unique is that it’s the only known hantavirus capable – in rare instances – of limited person-to-person transmission. Even so, both the WHO and ECDC currently assess the broader public health risk as low and consider this event a confined cluster and not a wider outbreak.

For the maritime industry, this is a reminder that not all infectious diseases carry the same operational risks. Unlike COVID-19 or influenza, hantavirus transmission generally requires prolonged close exposure, making widespread onboard transmission unlikely. That said, heightened concern around infectious disease events is understandable in the wake of the COVID pandemic, particularly in environments such as cruise vessels.

At this stage, the most effective response is to follow existing infection prevention and operational health protocols. Good sanitation, environmental hygiene and correct use of personal protective equipment provide strong protection against a wide range of infectious diseases, including hantavirus.

Awareness is also important. Medical teams and onboard personnel should be prepared to recognise symptoms and assess exposure, particularly when they involve confined spaces or the risk of rodent exposure.

VIKAND continues to actively support partners through advisory notices, ongoing monitoring and participation in industry discussions and medical working groups as new information becomes available.

At the same time, we are closely monitoring reports of an Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa and remain engaged with medical working groups organised by Cruise Lines International. Proactive global health surveillance remains an important part of VIKAND’s ongoing commitment to supporting our maritime partners worldwide.In this edition of Pulse, learn what operators can do when diverse crews have different attitudes toward mental health, explore a case study on how early mental health intervention via telehealth can strengthen crew wellbeing, meet our newest partner Salén Ship Management and more.