A deadly virus linked to rodents has sparked concern after several passengers aboard an Antarctic expedition cruise fell seriously ill, leaving three people dead and health officials tracing contacts across multiple countries.
The outbreak aboard the MV Hondius has drawn attention because the virus involved — theAndes strain of hantavirus— can, in rare situations, spread between humans through prolonged close contact.
Doctors and global health agencies say the illness is severe and potentially deadly but stress it behaves very differently from COVID-19.
The outbreak reportedly began aboard the Dutch expedition vessel MV Hondius during a voyage that departedUshuaia, Argentina, on 1 April 2026. The ship carried 147 passengers and crew members from more than 20 countries on a trip through Antarctica and the South Atlantic.
According to health officials, passengers began developing symptoms between 6 April and 28 April. By early May, at least seven suspected cases had been identified, including several laboratory-confirmed infections linked to the Andes strain of hantavirus.
Three people later died, including a Dutch couple and a German passenger. Another patient was reportedly admitted to intensive care in South Africa while authorities continued monitoring travellers who had already returned home through international flights.
The ship was eventually directed toward the Canary Islands under health protocols while isolation and contact-tracing efforts continued.
Experts say hantavirus can spread through airborne particles, but not in the same way as COVID-19 or influenza.
Most hantavirus infections happen after people inhale tiny virus particles released from rodent urine, saliva or droppings. This often occurs while sweeping enclosed areas, cleaning cabins, handling contaminated materials or disturbing dust in poorly ventilated spaces.
Dr Safder Ganaie of the University of Florida's Emerging Pathogens Institute explained that the virus becomes dangerous when contaminated rodent waste is disturbed and inhaled. 'It's not nearly as airborne as influenza or other common respiratory viruses.'
Source: International Business Times UK
