Switzerland has confirmed a new hantavirus case related to an outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius. The case is a type that can be passed between people and health officials are working to trace contacts and monitor the situation. The World Health Organization (WHO) said the patient, an unidentified man, tested positive after responding to a health alert sent to passengers from the ship. He later went to a hospital in Zurich, where the virus was confirmed and he is currently receiving care.
1. It is tied to a cruise ship outbreak
The man had been traveling on the MV Hondius, where multiple hantavirus cases have been reported. At least three people linked to the ship have died.
2. The strain can spread between people
The infection has been identified as the Andes hantavirus, a strain found in South America that can be transmitted person-to-person. The WHO has said it is possible transmission occurred onboard.
3. Authorities are tracing contacts
Swiss officials are trying to identify anyone the patient may have come into contact with after returning. The WHO is also working with international authorities to prevent further spread.
4. He fell ill after returning home
The patient became sick after returning to Switzerland from a South America trip at the end of April. He went to a hospital in Zurich, where he tested positive. His wife has not shown symptoms and is self-isolating as a precaution.
5. Officials say the overall risk is low
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
